Sondheim’s ‘Old Friends’ Revue, Starring Bernadette Peters and Lea Salonga, Charms Los Angeles Ahead of Broadway Transfer

Los Angeles, CA – A luminous tribute to the enduring legacy of composer Stephen Sondheim is currently captivating audiences at Center Theatre Group’s Ahmanson Theater in Los Angeles. The production, titled “Old Friends,” is a meticulously curated revue of Sondheim’s unparalleled body of work, conceived by the late maestro himself alongside acclaimed producer Cameron Mackintosh.

Following a celebrated run in London’s West End, “Old Friends” has arrived stateside as a stop en route to its highly anticipated Broadway debut. The production is set to open in New York in March, bringing its star-studded cast and extensive songbook to a broader American audience. The show serves as a poignant and celebratory memorial for Sondheim, who passed away in 2021, reaffirming his indelible impact on musical theatre.

A Legacy in Song

“Old Friends” distinguishes itself as the third authorized revue of Sondheim’s compositions, following in the footsteps of earlier acclaimed productions such as “Putting It Together” and “Side by Side.” While those shows offered valuable insights into his genius, “Old Friends” aims to provide a comprehensive retrospective, featuring selections that span the breadth of his extraordinary career.

The revue draws from a rich tapestry of Sondheim’s most iconic and beloved musicals. The program includes numbers from seminal works like “Gypsy,” “West Side Story,” and “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum,” alongside material from groundbreaking shows such as “Company,” “Follies,” and “A Little Night Music.” Deeper cuts and later period masterpieces are also represented, with songs from “Merrily We Roll Along,” “Sweeney Todd,” and “Passions” filling out the diverse repertoire.

Star Power Anchors Production

The production boasts a formidable cast, headlined by two towering figures of the stage: the legendary Bernadette Peters and the internationally acclaimed Lea Salonga. Peters, a longtime interpreter of Sondheim’s work, and Salonga, known for her powerful vocals and dynamic portrayals, anchor the revue with their seasoned artistry.

They are joined by a talented ensemble featuring notable performers including Beth Leavel, Gavin Lee, and Bonnie Langford, who contribute their skills to realizing Sondheim’s complex and emotionally resonant songs. The combined talent on stage ensures that the intricate lyrics and melodies are delivered with both precision and palpable emotion.

Highlighted Performances Resonate

Particular moments within the revue have garnered significant attention. Bernadette Peters, in performances highlighted by critics, delivers renditions of two of Sondheim’s most heartbreaking ballads: “Send in the Clowns” from “A Little Night Music” and “Losing My Mind” from “Follies.” Her interpretations are noted for their depth and emotional power, leveraging her decades-long connection to this material.

Lea Salonga also receives special mention for her contributions. Her portrayal of the villainous yet darkly comedic Mrs. Lovett from “Sweeney Todd” showcases her versatility. Furthermore, her vocal performances on a diverse range of songs, including “Loving You” from “Passions,” the iconic “Somewhere” from “West Side Story,” and the defiant “Everything’s Coming Up Roses” from “Gypsy,” have been singled out for praise, demonstrating her ability to inhabit distinct characters and vocal styles within the Sondheim canon.

Critical Reception

The Los Angeles run has been met with warm reception, echoing the success of its London engagement. A review published by Entertainment Weekly, authored by Maureen Lee Lenker, described the production as a “stunning love letter to Stephen Sondheim.” This sentiment captures the overarching feeling that the revue is less a traditional musical and more a heartfelt homage, allowing the brilliance of Sondheim’s writing to take center stage, performed by artists deeply familiar with his unique voice.

Anticipation Builds for Broadway

The limited engagement at the Ahmanson Theater precedes the show’s highly anticipated transfer to Broadway in New York this coming March. The move signals confidence in the production’s ability to resonate with the discerning New York theatre community, offering audiences on the East Coast an opportunity to experience this significant tribute.

“Old Friends,” through its thoughtful curation and stellar performances, stands as a testament to Stephen Sondheim’s unparalleled contribution to the world of musical theatre, ensuring his songs continue to move and inspire audiences for generations to come.