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Regional Reviews: Phoenix She Loves Me Also see Gil's reviews of A Moon for the Misbegotten and Occupational Hazards
Set in a 1930s Budapest parfumerie, the story follows Georg Nowack and Amalia Balash, two feuding coworkers who can barely stand each other. Unbeknownst to them, they are also anonymous pen pals who have fallen deeply in love through their letters. As misunderstandings, workplace tensions, and romantic entanglements unfold among the shop's employees, the truth gradually comes to light in a way that is as heartfelt as it is humorous. While the plot may center on coincidence, it's also an intoxicating comedy infused with sincerity and the power of love. With a book by Joe Masteroff, music by Jerry Bock, and lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, She Loves Me is based on the play Parfumerie by Miklós László. The same source material also inspired the beloved films The Shop Around the Corner and You've Got Mail, each offering its own take on the central romance of two feuding co-workers who just happen to be pen pals in love. The score is a standout, filled with lilting melodies with period-inspired orchestrations that evoke the elegance of 1930s Europe, with instrumentation and musical motifs that beautifully capture both the intimacy of the shop and the yearning of its characters. Georg Nowack, the sincere and quietly romantic shop clerk who longs for meaningful connection, is played by William Buhler with an abundance of sincerity. Georg's earnestness and quiet longing are brought to life by Buhler through a wonderfully grounded and vocally assured performance. Brie Wadsworth-Gates's performance of Amalia Balash sparkles with a perfect blend of intelligence and vulnerability–a portrayal of of this intelligent, spirited, and independent woman that balances a sunny disposition with sharp comedic instincts and genuine emotional depth. Both Buhler and Wadsworth-Gates have gorgeous and clear singing voices that make their many numbers shine bright. As Mr. Maraczek, the parfumerie owner, Rob Stuart commands attention with a stern exterior that gradually reveals surprising warmth. Stuart delivers a nuanced and deeply human portrayal. Ladislav Sipos, the kind-hearted and steady clerk who serves as a loyal friend to Georg and the voice of reason amid the shop's romantic chaos, is portrayed by Justin Howell with gentle humor, warmth, and charm. As Ilona Ritter, the shop's hopeful romantic, Brianna McClure bursts onto the stage with a vibrant charm, romantic optimism, and a heavy dose of dramatic flair. McClure's performance is hilarious and heartfelt with great comic timing. As Steven Kodaly, the suave and self-assured clerk, Brandt Norris exudes confidence and arrogance, making Kodaly's eventual unraveling all the more satisfying. McClure and Norris deliver impressive dance steps in "Ilona." As Arpad Laszlo, the eager, ambitious, earnest, and young delivery boy, Bennett Wood exhibits a positive disposition and a determination that reflects the character's innocence and drive. The ensemble are used quite effectively throughout as various shop customers and nightclub patrons with tight harmonies and bright vocals under Cathy Hauan's music direction. The direction and choreography by Cambrian James find inventive ways to bring the shop and its world to life. The musical numbers are presented with a graceful blend of movement and humor; Raymond Barcelo and Truman Regard infuse pops of comic hijinks and athleticism into "Romantic Atmosphere." McKenna Carpenter's set design oozes European period charm and her prop design is especially striking, featuring dozens of jars, bottles, and tubes of lotions displayed in beautifully lit cases, alongside carefully curated details that line the walls and fully immerse the audience in the parfumerie's bustling charm. Brielle Hawkes costumes and James' hair and makeup designs are impressive. She Loves Me at Hale Centre Theatre is a sweet and satisfying musical theatre treat. The impressive cast, direction, and creative elements capture the humor, heart, and timeless romance at the center of this classic musical comedy. She Loves Me runs through May, 9, 2026, at Hale Centre Theatre, 50 W. Page Avenue, Gilbert AZ. For tickets and information, please visit www.haletheatrearizona.com or by call 480-497-1181 Producers & Casting Directors: David & Corrin Dietlein Cast: |
