Nostalgic 'Follies' at Cygnet Theatre Honors Past and Present

A New Beginning for Theater in San Diego

The 1971 musical "Follies" brings together a group of retired performers who reunite for one night at a once-thriving Broadway theater now in disrepair. This rarely performed show by Stephen Sondheim and James Goldman might seem like an unusual choice for a new theater’s opening, but it perfectly aligns with the story of transformation that The Joan has become.

The Joan, a $43.5 million theater complex located in the Arts District Liberty Station, was built over the past two years within a former U.S. Navy building that had been abandoned for more than three decades. Just as this historic structure was reborn into a vibrant cultural hub, the Weismann Theater in "Follies" is reimagined in a dream sequence on The Joan’s Joseph Clayes III Theater stage. The red curtains of the Weismann feature Cygnet Theatre's signature swan logo, symbolizing the company's deep connection to the space.

The opening night of "Follies" marked not only the debut of the production but also the official launch of The Joan's theatrical capabilities. The venue includes a 150-seat flexible Dottie Studio Theater, an art gallery, and a lobby bar, making it a multifaceted cultural destination. The public spaces are modern and sleek, with notable features such as a spacious women’s restroom. The intimate Clayes Theater offers comfortable seating, excellent sightlines, and advanced lighting and sound systems. The orchestra performs in a separate room behind the stage, ensuring high-quality acoustics. Additionally, the venue provides outdoor patio seating, covered walkways, and ample free parking nearby, along with numerous dining options within a short walk.

Cygnet Artistic Director Sean Murray directed "Follies" with a focus on honoring the original concept while updating its relevance. The cast includes veteran actors who have been active in local theater since the 1970s, offering compelling performances that highlight their talent and experience. Notable among them are Leigh Scarritt, Ralph Johnson, Melinda Gilb, Patti Goodwin, and Anise Ritchie, each bringing depth and nuance to their roles.

The production's set design, created by Andrew Hull, accurately recreates the decrepit stage of the old Broadway house, complete with a disintegrating proscenium arch, falling concrete, and gold-hued clamshell footlight shields. The story follows former showgirls, dancers, and singers from the 1920s to 1940s who reunite for a party, sharing memories, laughter, and emotions before the theater is demolished.

The musical explores the idea that the ghosts of the past linger, with younger versions of the characters appearing in scenes where they observe their older selves. Murray cleverly casts young actors who closely resemble their older counterparts, enhancing the production's authenticity.

The central characters, Sally and Buddy Plummer, and Ben and Phyllis Stone, represent two unhappy couples whose lives intertwine through shared history and unfulfilled desires. Karole Foreman, David Humphrey, Sandy Campbell, and Russell Garrett deliver standout performances that anchor the narrative and provide emotional depth.

Some of the most memorable numbers include Foreman's powerful solo "Could I Leave You?" and Humphrey's poignant "The Road You Didn’t Take." Campbell's "Losing My Mind" and Garrett's "The Right Girl" are equally impressive, as are Scarritt's rendition of "I’m Still Here" and Gilb's humorous performance in "Who’s That Woman?"

While the first act may feel slow as the characters reconnect, the second act delivers the dramatic climax through an extended dream sequence known as "Loveland," which showcases the romantic failures of the main characters. Although the musical reflects its 1970s origins, this production is thoughtfully staged with exceptional choreography, costumes, sound, and lighting, making it a worthwhile experience.

Details for Upcoming Performances

When:
- 7 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays
- 2 and 7 p.m. Saturdays
- 2 p.m. Sundays
Through: October 12

Where:
Cygnet Theatre at The Joan
2880 Roosevelt Road
Arts District Liberty Station, San Diego

Tickets:
$44 and up

Phone:
619-337-1525

Online:
cygnettheatre.com