Constantine Pappas, Frank Mastrone, and Jeff Raab Photo by Alex Mongillo

The Manilow/Sussman score sounds wonderful as sung by the cast at Music Theatre of Connecticut, and Kevin Connors has done a fabulous job of directing, with an unbeatable assist by choreographer Chris McNiff. The power and humor of the story come through terrifically. Manilow's music is period perfect and miles away from his vast selection of pop hits.

Of the six Comedian Harmonists portrayed, the main character is Rabbi, who is portrayed sensationally in the present day by Frank Mastrone and by Constantine Pappas as the younger version. I have seen both of these actors in previous shows at Music Theatre of Connecticut, and they are better than ever in Harmony. Also standing out is Jeff Raab as Harry, the main force in assembling the musical group.

Cameron Edris shines as Erich and has fun leading the comic number, "Your Son Is Becoming a Singer!," while what is probably the funniest moment i the show arrives with the big song, "How Can I Serve You, Madame?", which spotlights the character of Lesh, deliciously played by Christian Libonati. Dominic Pagliaro is great as Bobby, especially in the song "Home," and Michael Alonzo is a pleasure as Chopin.

As Young Rabbi's wife Mary, Jazmin Gorsline is memorable and she gets the early song "What Do You See?" and then duets magnificently with Michelle Pauker, as Ruth, in the emotional "Where You Go." Ruth is the real fighter against the growing power of the Nazis, and Pauker can move one to tears with her heartbreaking performance. The large cast also notably includes Joseph Torello, Matt Mancuso, and Robert Peterpaul.

The scenic design by Sean Sanford is stylish and extends dazzlingly into the audience at the show's conclusion. Costume designer Diane Vanderkroef has done fantastic work, and the atmospheric and effective lighting design is by Jac-Que Robinson. Zachary Anderson is the expert music director of the fabulous orchestra, doing full justice to Manilow's music.

Harmony's true story is disturbing, but the musical is also very entertaining, with the actors playing the Comedian Harmonists at Music Theatre of Connecticut doing a brilliant job of singing the score and harmonizing perfectly. The account of what happened to the group is particularly sobering because, unfortunately, it is still relevant today. This production is, by turns, a haunting and enjoyable journey that you will definitely want to take.

Harmony runs through September 27, 2026, at Music Theatre of Connecticut, 509 Westport Ave., Norwalk CT. For tickets and information, please visit www.musictheatreofct.com.