Smart, Funny, Surprisingly Moving
This fast, funny, and sharply observed musical revue dives headfirst into the absurdities of modern love. From first dates to second marriages, baby talk to retirement flirtations, it covers the full spectrum of romance — and Sonoma Arts Live delivers it all with polish, creativity, and heart.
Originally debuting Off-Broadway in 1996, the show has had a long and global life for a reason — it taps into something universal. The format is simple but effective: a series of musical vignettes covering the entire arc of modern love, from awkward first dates and mismatched expectations to marriage, parenting, and even senior romance. There’s no single storyline, but there’s plenty of emotional continuity — and the humor keeps things moving.
A distinctive and memorable element of this production is the use of full-screen cartoon strip visuals projected behind the scenes. The show opens with an extended comic-style introduction that takes a moment to adjust to, but by the second or third scene, the images feel like a natural part of the storytelling. They guide the audience smoothly from moment to moment, offering a playful, graphic-novel flair that adds charm and rhythm to the show’s structure.
The 4-person cast — Jenny Veilleux, Robert Nelson, Jourdán Taylor-Verde, and Sarah Lundstrom (pictured below) — is excellent. Each performer takes on a wide variety of characters and delivers crisp comedic timing alongside real emotional weight. It’s not easy to bounce from broad satire to quiet sincerity, but this group handles the shifts with confidence and style.
photo credit: Katie Kelley
Music by Jimmy Roberts and lyrics by Joe DiPietro offer plenty of memorable lines and melodies — from clever duets to heartfelt solos. Musical director Ellen Patterson keeps the pacing tight and the tone grounded. It’s light on its feet, but never shallow.
The design team deserves credit for making the whole thing feel seamless. Kate LeLand’s costumes help the actors move between roles quickly, with smart visual cues and a few delightful surprises. Carl Jordan’s scenic design is simple and effective, leaving plenty of room for both performers and projections to shine.
In his director’s notes, Carl Jordan shares how surprised he was at how personally cast and crew connected to the material. That connection is clear — there’s honesty beneath the laughter, and the result is a show that’s both fun and, at times, surprisingly reflective.
The opening night champagne-and-sweets reception set the tone for a festive and welcoming evening — a perfect match for a show that reminds us how strange, funny, and worthwhile love really is.
Whether you come with a partner, a group of friends, or just your own memories of trying to make love work, there’s something here for you.
Ticket & Venue Info:
$39 General | $34 Senior | $22 Youth
Andrews Hall, Sonoma Community Center
276 East Napa Street, Sonoma, CA
Tickets: www.sonomaartslive.org
707-484-4874 | sue@sonomaartslive.org
Now playing through May 4 — smart, funny, and well worth your evening.
| “A fast, funny, and uncomfortably accurate look at how we date, mate, negotiate — and occasionally escape — modern love.” |
