Cda’s ‘How To Succeed’ A Partial Success

Sun., July 28, 1996

Jim Kershner Staff Writer

Who ever knew that a ‘60s musical could be so hilariously cynical?

This very funny Frank Loesser musical is a Big Business, buttoned-down, go-getter satire. That flavor comes across well in this good, but not great, production at the Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre.

The story follows the young and ambitious J. Pierpont Finch as he cunningly makes his way from the mailroom, to the personnel office, to the vice presidency, and finally to the board room.

This cheerfully told story is surprisingly undated, except for its depiction of the relationship between bosses and secretaries. At one point, the secretaries are recruited to be “hostesses” at a party. (Or is this dated at all?)

As usual at this professional summer stock theater, the level of performance is high. The 17-piece orchestra, directed by Deborah Hansen, sounds rich and full. Director Stan Foote draws many fine character performances out of the ensemble.

And you can’t help but like the very talented Frank Jewett in the role of J. Pierpont Finch. Jewett is a lovable charmer who is equally skilled in singing, dancing and acting. My only problem with him in this role is that he is so lovable and cuddly, he lacks the edge of cunning ambition the character requires. When one of the secretaries warns another that Finch has the soul of a barracuda, my reaction was, “Who? Him?”

This problem was most pronounced in the big number “I Believe In You,” the best-known song from this musical. It is written, apparently, as Finch’s narcissistic pep-talk to himself (“You’ve got the cool, clear eyes of a seeker of wisdom and truth”). This Finch just isn’t egotistical enough to convey that idea.

Kay Story is fine as Rosemary, the secretary who falls in love with Finch. Story has a tall, elegant Jackie Kennedy look, perfect for the period (early ‘60s). I will admit, though, that I had a little trouble buying the romance between her and Finch. She is a leggy thoroughbred; he is a teddy bear. Not that those kinds of romances don’t happen; it’s just that they are difficult to sell on stage.

The supporting performances are worth the price of admission, supplied by many of the usual suspects: Bobbi Kotula as the jaded secretary Smitty; Jennifer Niederloh as the frumpish secretary Miss Jones; Cheyenne Jackson as the yes-man Bratt; and Micheal Muzatko as the snotty Bud Frump.

The sets by Jack Green are done in whimsical jelly bean colors. The elevators were especially effective. I’m not so sure about the boss’s office; it’s tough to imagine a CEO without a desk, even if his chair is raised high like a throne.

Showtimes are today at 2 p.m. and Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. Tickets are $19, $14 for students; available from (800) 4-CDATIX, or (208) 769-7780. Performances are at the North Idaho College Boswell Auditorium in Coeur d’Alene.

, DataTimes MEMO: “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” Thursday night, Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre

“How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” Thursday night, Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre

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