By Laurie DuPaul

Special Contributor

The Arundel Barn Playhouse off Route 1 in Arundel presents “The Mikado” or “The Town of Titipu” with music and lyrics by W. S. Gilbert and Sir Arthur Sullivan. A comic operetta, The Mikado is directed and choreographed by Dewayne Barrett. Last season directing “Nunsensations,” he demonstrated his talent with a delightful production. This year is no exception. 

Before entering the Arundel Barn Playhouse, Christopher Manns, assistant to the producing artistic director, welcomes attendees in Japanese costume. At intermission, the audience has the opportunity to model a Kimono or listen as Manns shares the history of a delightful Japanese treat, Pocky.  A must try, this snack is a breadstick covered with chocolate. 

Kathryn Kawecki, set designer, will amaze those who attended “Godspell” with a complete stage makeover. The stage having been transformed from a circus to a small Japanese town in two days demonstrates the summer stock theater at its best. The set is appealing to the eye and the details of Japanese architecture sets the stage for the production.

Kristina Makowski, costume designer, has assembled a delightful array of costumes. Detailed and brightly colored the costumes along with accessories add to the set.

Ken Clark (Ko-Ko), playing the Lord High Executioner of Titipu, delighted the audience in “SUDS” and now is back with his charming demeanor that he uses to engage the audience through facial expression and actions. The audience erupts with laughter as he tries to solve his dilemma of needing to carry out an execution within 30 days.

Darren  Blue  (Nanki-Poo) who played Jesus in “Godspell,” plays the part of a wandering minstrel in love with Yum-Yum. Blue interacts with Clark throughout the performance as he is the one that may be executed. Although a serious dilemma for both characters, never once do audience members believe an execution will take place – partly because of Ryan Wonnacott (Pooh-Bah) whose role is all the administrative characters in a town. 

Monica Willey (Katisha) continues to entertain the audience with her acting and voice. Her solo, “Alone and Yet Alive” and duet with Clark, “There is Beauty in the Bellow of the Blast,” are beautifully sung. Willey coming forth with her character pursuing the Mikado’s son, soon has audience members changing their perception of the character and hoping that she too will find happiness.

Colleen Gallagher (Yum-Yum) who appeared in “SUDS” as Cindy, once again draws in the audience with her charm and voice as she sings with Blue “Were you not to Ko-Ko Plighted.” 

The Mikato has a total of eighteen characters and each compliment the production. Throughout the performance each character demonstrates their talent through song, actions, and expressions. 

Joshua Smith, musical director and first pianist, is joined by Nicholas Place, as second pianist and Evan McCann, a student at Kennebunk High School, as percussionist. 

If you have not taken in a play this summer, this is one not to let pass by. Having attended productions at the Arundel Barn Playhouse for the past two seasons, this is a must see.