Fabrizio (Constantine Germanacos) and Clara (Whitney Bashor) in 'The Light in the Piazza' at TheatreWorks. Photo by Tracy Martin.

There are times you go to the theatre to see a performance of a
production that delights, charms and overwhelms. It includes a
magnificent score, a stunning cast and a beautiful love story.
Getting all three at one time is a unique experience.
There are times you go to the theatre to see a performance of a production that delights, charms and overwhelms. It includes a magnificent score, a stunning cast and a beautiful love story. Getting all three at one time is a unique experience.

It happened. “Light In The Piazza” hit the trifecta of musicals.

“Light In The Piazza” opened on Broadway in 2005; it won six Toni Awards including best original score. The story takes place in 1953 and centers around a protective mother, Margret, and her delicate, immature 20-something daughter, Clara, visiting Florence, Italy. Clara becomes attracted to Fabrizio, a charming young man she meets in the square. Margret is unsure whether she should let the romance continue and give Clara the opportunity to love and be loved. The story takes many paths and turns that must be experienced to really enjoy the entire plot.

Rebecca Eichenberger (as Margret Johnson, Clara’s mother), Whitney Bashor (as Clara) and Constantine Germanacos (as Fabrizio) are all tremendous in voice and delivery. A strong supporting cast adds to this brilliant production.

Director Robert Kelly delivers perfection with his usual attention to detail as he delicately delves into crevices of the sensitive plot that brings out the best in his actors.

William Liberatore conducts this beautiful score while he plays the keyboards with his usual flawless delivery. The fine group is completed with a violin, cello, bass and harp; they bring in a sound of a symphonic orchestra.

Scenic designer J.B. Wilson, lighting designer Pamala Z. Gray and sound designer Cliff Caruthers provide just the right touches in their venues. Fumiko Bielefeldt’s 1950 styled costumes complete this faultless production.

“Light In The Piazza” is an exquisite experience that theatre lovers should not miss. This production will leave the audience a little breathless as TheatreWorks gives us its usual first-rate production.

***

‘Light In The Piazza’

Where: TheatreWorks, Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St., Mountain View

Through: Sept. 19

Tickets: $19-$67

Details: (650) 463-1060 or visit www.theatreworks.org

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