Back To Bacharach and David Set to Charm

Upon entering the Main Stage auditorium for the Theatre Three production of Back To Bacharach and David, on Saturday evening, March, 9th, in Port Jefferson Village, I was immediately taken by the beautifully designed set created for the show.

The setting, designed by resident set designer Randall Parsons was a meticulous work of stage craft and design.  Mr. Parsons designed an intimate Irish pub, McCoys, at closing time when the staff was cleaning up and having a few nightcaps before heading home to what was intimated as being a variety of lonely, empty apartments.

The bar was substantial, with detailed trimmings in old, dark wood and fitted with swivel bar stools originating from at least the fifties era.  A paneled glass ceiling arched over the top of the set, lit by soft moonlight shining through hazy frost covered glass.  Above, lining the back wall, an a worn wooden shelf displayed a old acoustic guitar, tins, sports memorabilia, and  other antiques collected over the years of serving late night local customers and neighborhood folks coming in to watch the game.  The entry doors were  made of wood frames and glass which were a pleasant reminder of the “old days” when hand crafted doors and windows graced the city streets and local village pubs.  It was a place where you could go to find comfort and companionship; an oasis from the storm of everyday life and unrequited love.

The attention to detail was outstanding and contributed a good deal of the theme and tone of the musical.  It worked so well, it seemed to stand out as an additional character in the show.  Property mistress Julie Hoffman and lighting designer Robert W Henderson are to be credited with an exceptional job as well.  In short the setting, the lighting and the mix of properties was some of the best work I have seen over the last twenty years I have been attending the Productions at the theatre.

The artistic endeavors of director Steve Mccoy and musical director Risk DeAngelis were commendable, adding various interpretation to songs the audience was familiar with such as “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head,” and “The Look of Love.”

Memorable numbers were done by Suzanne Mason including “Do You know the Way to San Jose?” and “Don’t Make Over.”  The closing number, “Promises, Promises” was also upbeat and well done with very strong harmonies and vocals.

Overall, this was an entertaining evening demonstrating the very talented designers that work so hard behind the scenes to pay homage to their craft.