Hilarity, infidelity, jealousy follow love in ‘Little Night Music’

The summer night smiles for everyone, young and old, foolish and wise. It even smiles on the infidelity, jealousy and hilarity that follows the three couples in the IU Department of Theatre and Drama’s last production of the year, “A Little Night Music,” which opened Friday.

The show tells the story of Desiree Armfeldt and her many love affairs, the latest of which includes Count Malcom and a long-lost lover, the lawyer Fredrik. Both men are married, but that doesn’t stop Armfeldt from pursuing the one that got away.
Sarissa Michaud, a stage manager of the ballet department and a member of the audience, said the elaborate costuming and scenery caught her eye.

All the dresses had distinct designs, and the scenery took the audience from home to theater to a summer forest seamlessly.

“I liked the scenic design and I enjoyed the costumes,” Michaud said. “I also know the director George Pinney and thought he did a really nice job.”

The songs, distinct in their three-beat waltz time, blended with the action of the play.
The songs “Now” and “Later” came together in “Soon.” Desiree and Fredrik exchange quips and adorations on Fredrik’s wife in “You Must Meet My Wife,” and the whole show ends with a finale featuring “Send in the Clowns.”

Megan McKinney, a freshman at Ivy Tech, said the musical performances were her favorite part of the show.

“I really like the vocal side of it. I thought it was pronounced really well, and the ensemble in general was really good,” McKinney said.

Between the singing and flirting, gossip and threats, the characters’ feuds and follies in love made the audience giggle throughout the show. Audience member and sister of one of the actresses, Melissa Peterson, said all aspects of the show came together for a fun evening.

“Very entertaining, it’s comedic, the music was beautiful,” Peterson said. “It’s not too serious, but it still sends a particular message.”

Senior Andrew Brewer, who portrayed Fredrik, said he looks forward to the rest of the show’s run.

“Opening night is always super nervous, and it’s always really energetic,” Brewer said. “It’s been great audiences so far. Make sure everybody comes — it’ll be great. It’s always fun.”