My Review of Michael's Tasting Room and Oliver! the Musical.
With the Artist Series shows winding down for the season, I took it upon myself to explore other theatrical avenues (more-or-less) close to home, to get my theater-junkie fix. I was more than thrilled to see that one of my former co-workers was featured in the play Oliver! at the Limelight theater in St. Augustine! The production of Oliver! had always been on my bucket list, but I have never had the pleasure of viewing it...not even the movie version. With opening night already sold out, I seized the opportunity to enjoy the show the following night.
With my sister, Tina, in tow, we made the hour long journey down to St. Augustine. (This is the part where I go on a ten-minute tirade about the lack of parking downtown, but I will let it go since it was such a minuscule part of our night).
After walking through a real-life war reenactment, with the gunpowder still lingering in the air, we made our way down the twists and turns of the cobblestone streets to Michael's Tasting Room.
Michael's Tasting Room, formerly-known-as "The Tasting Room," located at 25 Cuna Street, St. Augustine, is a charming tapas restaurant, serving up innovative cuisine with Spanish flair.
This contemporary Spanish restaurant has been serving up delicious dishes to St. Auggie's and tourists alike since 2006, and we were happy to oblige, playing the role of tourists in this tasty production!
The rustic ambiance was warm and inviting and quite romantic, with even the soft candlelight and acoustic guitarist acting as the perfect accompaniments to our fabulous experience.
What We Ate/Drank:
On with the show!
We quickly scurried down the street to the Limelight theater (yet again, due to the seriously lack of parking in this town). As we excitedly flew up the steps and bounded through the entrance to this historic little theater, the slight creek of the opening doors and rustic scent transformed us to St. Augustine's rich past, that makes you forget about those 1st world problems and start to relax and focus on what's really important. Family, friends and good company. This cozy local theater lacks nothing in charm and ambiance, complete with a very warm and welcoming staff.
We found our seats just as the lights dimmed and were transported to 1820's London. This well-loved musical adaptation, by Lionel Bart, of Charles Dicken's classic tale, Oliver is an orphan who runs away from his cruel caretakers only to land himself in trouble with the wrong kind of people. As he navigates his new life, he finds hope in the kindness of newfound friends.
The most memorable parts of the show were the impeccable choreographed musical numbers with the incredibly talented youngsters, including the opening scene with the orphans and the number with Fagan's merry pick-pockets.
For a storyline who's underlying theme is about cruelty to our beloved characters, the musical score is quite likable with memorable favorites like "Food, Glorious Food," "Where Is Love," "Consider Yourself," "Oom-Pah-Pah," and "As Long As He Needs Me," just to name a few.
I was more than overly impressed by the utterly talented cast and crew as a whole, of this production. I didn't mean to sell anyone short by having "community theater" expectations, but all that was blown out of the water. While all the hard-working thespians in this cast were wonderful, there are a few "stand-outs" that I would like to call-out:
The character of Nancy, played by Chloe Cordle, a second year student at Florida School of the Arts, was spot on. Cordle's theatrical passion, along with her heart-felt solos were a sure crowd pleaser.
Another outstanding performance was delivered by Chris MacEwan. His portrayal of the utter scoundrel Bill Sykes, who disappointingly doesn't appear until the second act, is undoubtedly broadway quality. It probably helps that MacEwan was actually an actor in New York prior to his current career in the exciting field of account management. Never-the-less, knowing MacEwan personally as someone who is quite lovable, and always has a smile on his face, it must have been a stretch playing such a villain, (but also quite fun, I should think).
Andy Nance, playing the role of Fagin, is a St. Augustine native and regular at the Limelight. Nance added much humor and likability to his vagabond character, who delighted in the rewards of others dirty deeds, managing to not get his hands dirty himself in the process.
The obvious star of the show and my personal favorite character, The Artful Dodger, or Jack Dawkins, is played by young superstar Jack Rose. This playful and very challenging role has also been portrayed on stage by talented artists such as Phil Collins, Davy Jones, Jack Wild and Elijah Wood. Bravo my dear fellow!
Spoiler Alert: Another memorable scene in the show was the murder scene between MacEwan and Cordle, only made more menacing and erie due to the high-quality production lighting and sound effects.
Overall, I was very impressed by this local production, directed by Tom Fallon, and proud to have such a theatrical gem so close to home (more-or-less). I highly recommend seeing this show – you won’t regret it! You'd better reserve your tickets now, as I predict this show will sell out fast!
With the Artist Series shows winding down for the season, I took it upon myself to explore other theatrical avenues (more-or-less) close to home, to get my theater-junkie fix. I was more than thrilled to see that one of my former co-workers was featured in the play Oliver! at the Limelight theater in St. Augustine! The production of Oliver! had always been on my bucket list, but I have never had the pleasure of viewing it...not even the movie version. With opening night already sold out, I seized the opportunity to enjoy the show the following night.
With my sister, Tina, in tow, we made the hour long journey down to St. Augustine. (This is the part where I go on a ten-minute tirade about the lack of parking downtown, but I will let it go since it was such a minuscule part of our night).
After walking through a real-life war reenactment, with the gunpowder still lingering in the air, we made our way down the twists and turns of the cobblestone streets to Michael's Tasting Room.
Michael's Tasting Room, formerly-known-as "The Tasting Room," located at 25 Cuna Street, St. Augustine, is a charming tapas restaurant, serving up innovative cuisine with Spanish flair.
This contemporary Spanish restaurant has been serving up delicious dishes to St. Auggie's and tourists alike since 2006, and we were happy to oblige, playing the role of tourists in this tasty production!
The rustic ambiance was warm and inviting and quite romantic, with even the soft candlelight and acoustic guitarist acting as the perfect accompaniments to our fabulous experience.
What We Ate/Drank:
"Pescadito Frito" Crispy Local Mahi, Horseradish Salsa Verde, Potato Puree, with Seasonal Veggies
Grilled Hanging Tenderloin "Churrasco," with Tomato Panzanella
2011 Cline, Cashmere, Grenache, Syrah, Mouvedre, California
Grilled Hanging Tenderloin "Churrasco," with Tomato Panzanella
2011 Cline, Cashmere, Grenache, Syrah, Mouvedre, California
After receiving all wonderful recommendations from our very helpful (and quite cute I might add) server, we plunged into our main courses with fervor. (If only we had more time before the show to try more of Chef's offerings)!
I usually don't order Mahi, as it is usually a thick cut of fish, and due to it's low fat content can be prepared a bit too dry for my liking. The Pescadito Frito was cooked absolutely perfect! The Mahi was melt in your mouth tender, with a rich, buttery flavor from all the yummy accompaniments on the plate. One of my favorite "secret" ingredients I use to sneak extra zest and heat into various dishes and sauces is prepared horseradish. (Try it sometime in your homemade ranch or tartar sauce).
The tenderloin was also quite succulent, with a hint of tang and fire, cooked to medium-medium rare perfection. This dish was accompanied by roasted veggies and a light nutty olive oil drizzling. Recently becoming a pescetarian, I was jealous watching my sister thoroughly enjoying her meal and almost licking the plate clean. She later mentioned that it would be very hard to come back to this restaurant and not order this dish again and again, since it was so amazing!
Sip, bite, repeat....the wine was versatile enough to go with both of our dishes beautifully. Is there nothing better than a fabulous warm meal and a perfect wine pairing? Nope.
If I lived in St. Augustine, you'd better bet Michael's Tasting Room would be my go-to staple for date night and family get-togethers.
Michael's Tasting Room is open for dinner seven-days-a-week beginning at 5 p.m.
I usually don't order Mahi, as it is usually a thick cut of fish, and due to it's low fat content can be prepared a bit too dry for my liking. The Pescadito Frito was cooked absolutely perfect! The Mahi was melt in your mouth tender, with a rich, buttery flavor from all the yummy accompaniments on the plate. One of my favorite "secret" ingredients I use to sneak extra zest and heat into various dishes and sauces is prepared horseradish. (Try it sometime in your homemade ranch or tartar sauce).
The tenderloin was also quite succulent, with a hint of tang and fire, cooked to medium-medium rare perfection. This dish was accompanied by roasted veggies and a light nutty olive oil drizzling. Recently becoming a pescetarian, I was jealous watching my sister thoroughly enjoying her meal and almost licking the plate clean. She later mentioned that it would be very hard to come back to this restaurant and not order this dish again and again, since it was so amazing!
Sip, bite, repeat....the wine was versatile enough to go with both of our dishes beautifully. Is there nothing better than a fabulous warm meal and a perfect wine pairing? Nope.
If I lived in St. Augustine, you'd better bet Michael's Tasting Room would be my go-to staple for date night and family get-togethers.
Michael's Tasting Room is open for dinner seven-days-a-week beginning at 5 p.m.
On with the show!
We quickly scurried down the street to the Limelight theater (yet again, due to the seriously lack of parking in this town). As we excitedly flew up the steps and bounded through the entrance to this historic little theater, the slight creek of the opening doors and rustic scent transformed us to St. Augustine's rich past, that makes you forget about those 1st world problems and start to relax and focus on what's really important. Family, friends and good company. This cozy local theater lacks nothing in charm and ambiance, complete with a very warm and welcoming staff.
We found our seats just as the lights dimmed and were transported to 1820's London. This well-loved musical adaptation, by Lionel Bart, of Charles Dicken's classic tale, Oliver is an orphan who runs away from his cruel caretakers only to land himself in trouble with the wrong kind of people. As he navigates his new life, he finds hope in the kindness of newfound friends.
The most memorable parts of the show were the impeccable choreographed musical numbers with the incredibly talented youngsters, including the opening scene with the orphans and the number with Fagan's merry pick-pockets.
For a storyline who's underlying theme is about cruelty to our beloved characters, the musical score is quite likable with memorable favorites like "Food, Glorious Food," "Where Is Love," "Consider Yourself," "Oom-Pah-Pah," and "As Long As He Needs Me," just to name a few.
I was more than overly impressed by the utterly talented cast and crew as a whole, of this production. I didn't mean to sell anyone short by having "community theater" expectations, but all that was blown out of the water. While all the hard-working thespians in this cast were wonderful, there are a few "stand-outs" that I would like to call-out:
The character of Nancy, played by Chloe Cordle, a second year student at Florida School of the Arts, was spot on. Cordle's theatrical passion, along with her heart-felt solos were a sure crowd pleaser.
Another outstanding performance was delivered by Chris MacEwan. His portrayal of the utter scoundrel Bill Sykes, who disappointingly doesn't appear until the second act, is undoubtedly broadway quality. It probably helps that MacEwan was actually an actor in New York prior to his current career in the exciting field of account management. Never-the-less, knowing MacEwan personally as someone who is quite lovable, and always has a smile on his face, it must have been a stretch playing such a villain, (but also quite fun, I should think).
Andy Nance, playing the role of Fagin, is a St. Augustine native and regular at the Limelight. Nance added much humor and likability to his vagabond character, who delighted in the rewards of others dirty deeds, managing to not get his hands dirty himself in the process.
The obvious star of the show and my personal favorite character, The Artful Dodger, or Jack Dawkins, is played by young superstar Jack Rose. This playful and very challenging role has also been portrayed on stage by talented artists such as Phil Collins, Davy Jones, Jack Wild and Elijah Wood. Bravo my dear fellow!
Spoiler Alert: Another memorable scene in the show was the murder scene between MacEwan and Cordle, only made more menacing and erie due to the high-quality production lighting and sound effects.
Overall, I was very impressed by this local production, directed by Tom Fallon, and proud to have such a theatrical gem so close to home (more-or-less). I highly recommend seeing this show – you won’t regret it! You'd better reserve your tickets now, as I predict this show will sell out fast!
June 6 - July 6, 2014 at the Limelight Theater, Matuza Stage, St. Augustine
For Oliver! reservations, click here, or call (904) 825-1164
For Oliver! reservations, click here, or call (904) 825-1164
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| The cast of Oliver! Courtesy of The Limelight Theater |
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| The cast of Oliver! Courtesy of The Limelight Theater |
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| Chole as Cordle as Nancy, Courtesy of The Limelight Theater |
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| Chris MacEwan as Bill Sykes, Courtesy of The Limelight Theater |
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| Andy Nance as Fagin, Courtesy of The Limelight Theater |
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| Jack Rose as the Artful Dodger (left), with Alexander Lawless as Oliver Twist (right), Courtesy of The Limelight Theater |
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| Alexander Lawless as Oliver Twist, Courtesy of The Limelight Theater |
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