So you’ve seen the 1987 film with Cher, Susan Sarandon, Michelle Pfeiffer and Jack Nicholson.
Perhaps you’ve read the inspiration for the screenplay in John Updike’s saucy novel.
So what? You don’t know these witches.
Not the way in which Marc Kudisch masterfully molds three savvy sisters plagued with small-town ennui into a trio of smoldering strumpets in the American premiere of “The Witches of Eastwick” at Signature Theatre. Not when John Dempsey and Dana P. Rowe have invented a delectable musical comedy that paints in such broad strokes; not when juicy numbers like “Dirty Laundry” and “Dance with the Devil” make you want to jump out of your seat and boogie — and not when Eric Schaeffer is perched in the director’s chair.
Here, “Witches” gets full theatrical treatment in a musical that is derivative of the film version and no more. Taking its darker, more mystic tones from the source novel, this version of “Witches” casts off its kooky British vibes from the 2000 London premiere to concoct a savory brew of boiling sensuality and musical theater sorcery.
» The Highlights
A giant blue moon sets the scene for a night filled with giddy music, spicy town gossip and freaky frolicking between scandalous satin sheets. Even though there are sinister undertones, Dempsey’s smart and unpretentious lyrics add a light and playful tone to the evening.
» The Lowlights
This “Witches” brew drops you smack in the middle of the story, with a breezy introduction to the pining threesome over dry martinis and dessert. The writers presume you are already familiar with the femme triangle of distinct personalities, so you’ll find no mischievous exposition — just wanton, lusty desires du jour.
» The Cast
The key ingredient in Schaeffer’s cauldron is one sinful little demon, and here Kudisch is ablaze with sex appeal burning an inferno onstage. Kudisch is a magnetic and seductive force rumbling with virility — his devil is thoroughly rotten to the core — spoiled and salacious, lascivious and even downright lewd. …
And don’t we just love it!
With his dream of a voice, Kudisch casts an irresistible spell alongside Skinner, Noll and Donovan — three soaring vocalists who work (and play) well together.
» The Designers
Alejo Vietti’s brilliant costumes are a joy to behold, from gorgeous gowns to naughty negligees, and a robust, hidden orchestra is led with expert musical direction by Jon Kalbfleisch.
» Munch on This
Use your wiliest witchcraft to conjure up tickets to Washington’s best musical event of the summer. With Kudisch delivering one of the most knock-out performances of the year, Signature Theatre’s “Witches” creates moments of music theater magic that come along only once in a blue moon.
‘The Witches of Eastwick’
» Venue: Signature Theatre, 2800 S. Stafford St., Arlington
» Performances: 7:30 p.m Tuesdays and Wednesdays; 8 p.m.
Thursdays and Fridays; 2 and 8 p.m. Saturdays; 2 and 7 p.m. Sundays
» Tickets: $38 to $63
» Info: 703-820-9771, www.signature-theatre.org
