I am not one to place bets, but the odds would be in my favor to wager that the new production at Revolution Stage Company of Forever Plaid—Plaid Tidings would delight even Ebeneezer Scrooge and put him in a happy holiday mood!
The original Forever Plaid musical and this holiday edition, Plaid Tidings, were conceived and written by Stuart Ross. Both shows feature the same four characters. The Plaids are a male singing group whose musical sound is similar to ’50s/’60s quartets such as the Four Freshmen or the Four Aces. As you’d expect, the four Plaids have different vocal ranges, and their musical arrangements are designed to blend the voices with tight harmonies.
The Plaids are on the edge of being “discovered.” On the way to the concert location, where they expect to get their big break, their car is hit by a school bus. No one on the bus is injured, but all four Plaids are killed—yet the Plaids, now angels, are given a chance to come back to Earth for a day and perform for an audience.
Roger Welch is the director of the RSC production. His extensive experience is nicely displayed as he keeps the pace of the show moving, but never hurried. Each of his four Plaid angels has a chance or three to be featured as a soloist or storyteller, but the four are never too far away from another gloriously harmonized song.
Alex Bernhardt is the masterful musical director, which is NOT an easy job, since Plaid Tidings has 34 musical numbers! He is the accompanist onstage for the show, becoming the fifth character, of sorts. He displayed panache by showing he knows how to “make an entrance” at the beginning of both acts.
The four actors portraying the Plaids are, collectively and individually, exemplary performers. Carlos Garcia, as Frankie, has a strong stage presence that is always focused and pleasing. He moves gracefully. While Frankie is a leader, his sudden asthma attacks show the character’s insecurities. His “Rudolf, the Red Nosed Reindeer,” was wonderful! This show is an excellent vehicle for his talents and versatility.
Julian Perez, as Sparky, brings a confident and competent stage presence. He interacts with the audience nicely and keeps things moving. His vocals are strong.
Koby Queenen, as Smudge, offers a powerful but nuanced voice. He does physical comedy well; his scene without his glasses was very funny. It is always a joy to see him create unique characters.
Noah Wahlberg, as Jinx, is a wonderfully creative performer who is a true triple-threat: He sings, dances and acts skillfully. Jinx is the shy Plaid, prone to nosebleeds—but he will jump to the forefront with confidence when necessary.
The technical aspects of the show were well-done. The many lightning transitions coming from heaven helped move the story without becoming intrusive, and the sound levels were appropriate so vocals could be heard and understood. The costumes were snazzy and appealing.
If you enjoy talented performers making difficult music sound relatively effortless, see Plaid Tidings at RSC!
Plaid Tidings will be performed at 7 p.m., Wednesday through Friday; 8 p.m., Saturday; and 2 p.m., Sunday, through Saturday, Dec. 20, at Revolution Stage Company, 611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, in Palm Springs. Tickets start at $43. For tickets or more information, visit www.revolutionstagecompany.com.