The Ruth Theater in Pleasant and Grove is hosting a vibrant production of the musical 'The Scarlet Pimpernel,' bringing the high-stakes drama of the French Revolution to life through swashbuckling action, romance, and intense stage combat. The production features an expansive cast and intricate period designs as it continues its run through August 22.
A Tale of Revolution and Deceit
Directed by David Morgan, the production is described by Utah Theatre Arts Journal as a non-stop adventure characterized by dynamic performances and stunning vocals. The show's pacing relies on a rapid first act to create emotional weight for the slower moments in the second act, with the musical number 'Madame Guillotine' serving as a pivotal moment that thrusts the audience into the atmosphere of the Reign of Terror.
The musical is based on the famous novel by Baroness Orczy and features music by Frank Wildhorn along with book and lyrics by Nan Knighton. The story centers on Sir Percy Blakeney, an English nobleman who marries Marguerite St. Just during the height of the French Revolution. Outraged by the executions carried out by the French guillotine, Blakeney assembles a secret crew to rescue aristocrats, adopting the heroic alter-ego known as The Scarlet Pimpernel.
As the plot unfolds, the production explores a web of lies as Marguerite is suspected of being a spy working for Citizen Chauvelin. This triangle of deceit drives much of the tension within the musical's 120-minute runtime.
Standout Lead Performances
The production features standout performances from its lead actors. Scott Hendrickson, performing in the Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday cast, portrays Sir Percy Blakeney. Reviewers have noted Hendrickson's ability to balance the dramatic intensity of the Pimpernel with a feigned, buoyant personality that provides moments of comedy and tension.
Malia Morley performs as Marguerite, earning praise for her vocal strength and her consistent use of a French accent, supported by the work of dialect coach Steven Rimkuat. Her performance is described as both poignant and fierce. Rounding out the central conflict is Bronson Dameron, who portrays Citizen Chauvelin with a gritty, determined presence that persists through to the musical's conclusion.
The cast utilizes an alternating schedule, with different actors appearing on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. The M/W/F cast includes Nate Brogan as Hal, Pierce Robiente as Armand, James Duncan as Elton, Jordan Nicholes as Percy, Joe Spear as Dewhust, Conner Stuart McMaster as Faleigh, and Parks Harward as Ben.
Visuals and Stage Combat
Visual elements play a significant role in the production's intensity. Lighting designer Ryan Fallis uses bold geometric shapes and vibrant colors to emphasize character themes, particularly during musical numbers such as 'Into the Fire' and 'The Riddle.'
Complementing the lighting is Lauri Baird’s costume design, which features a high volume of intricate period pieces. The designs are noted for their scale and detail, particularly the numerous gowns worn by the character Marguerite. The production also incorporates significant physical elements, including detailed and lengthy battle sequences choreographed by Spencer Hohl, culminating in a realistic onstage swordfight.
Broadway History and Accolades
The musical 'The Scarlet Pimpernel' has a significant Broadway history. The original production premiered at the Minskoff Theatre on November 9, 1997, and ran for a total of 772 performances across three different versions at both the Minskoff and Neil Simon theatres. The original Broadway cast featured Terrence Mann, Christine Andreas, and Douglas Sills, the latter of whom won a 1998 Theatre World Award.
The production has received various accolades, including three 1998 Tony Award nominations and two Drama Desk Awards. The composer, Frank Wildhorn, is a multi-Grammy, Tony, and Emmy nominee known for his work in pop, rock, and classical theatrical music.
Performance Details
The production at The Ruth is available for viewing through August 22. Located at 401 South Pleasant Grove Boulevard in Pleasant Grove, Utah, the theater offers tickets ranging from $23 to $75. Further details regarding showtimes and tickets can be found on The Ruth's official website.
