New MRT play a hit
I loved the new play at the Merrimack Repertory Theatre, 2 Pianos 4 Hands by Ted Dykstra and Richard Greenblatt, which opened tonight to a packed house. Judging by the quick standing ovation and cheers from the audience, I wasn’t the only one. The musical comedy is worth braving the cold to see and runs until Jan. 27, but don’t wait to get your tickets. (The rest of this weekend is already sold out.) The play is a fun-loving romp that includes live musical performances spanning Beethoven and Chopin to “Great Balls of Fire” and “Benny and the Jets.” The laugh-out-loud antics and facial expressions of the two talented piano-playing actors (not an easy find) were exceptional in the context of their often hilarious, intense piano feuding. For anyone who has ever played an instrument, taken lessons, or forced someone else to take lessons, this journey will especially resonate. Ultimately, as with most good art of whatever form, there is a universal truth about the human condition that speaks to us all. To experience that truth together, amid laughter and the wonderful sounds of two grand pianos, was well worth the price of a ticket, and I can’t think of a better way to spend a January evening.