The Scarlet Pimpernel

I have always been a fan of this beautifully written Wildhorn musical and the 2010 production at the Hale Center Theater in Orem is a fantastic production from start to finish. With absolutely breathtaking costumes, wonderful performers, and a great score to boot!

My dear friend Neal Johnson brings in a touching, exciting and fresh performance as Sir Percival Blakeney (a.k.a., The Scarlet Pimpernel)! I have only seen Neal as Chauvelin before, so it was a refreshing change to see him play this role. Neal touched my heart deeply from the very beginning, particularly at the moment of the beautiful song "Prayer." Neal is an honest performer and his honesty brought the audience to tears at this moment and I along with the rest of the audience was on his side from that point on. Lauren Noll gave an equally stunning performance as Margueritte St. Just. I felt for her as well and wanted her and Percy to stay together not be pulled apart. The surprise of the evening came when the announcement was made that my dear friend Dave Burton would be playing Chauvelin that evening. Dave gave the performance of his career! Dave brought a human side to this very complex character and it was refreshing to see a real human Chauvelin instead of an oily, slick and evil one. Neal brought the same when he has played the part, and Dave comes up to the plate with equal craft and skill!

The rest of the ensemble were equally wonderful! The overall cast was incredible and was truly an ensemble. They worked wonderfully together! I thoroughly enjoyed myself all evening and kudos to HCTO for a well done production!