It’s tough for some of us to reconcile a comedy about The Titanic.
After all, many of us are haunted by the story of how more than 1500 people died when the Titanic luxury liner hit an iceberg on April 14, 1912 and sunk just under three hours later on April 15.
So what a delightful surprise to discover that “Pluck – the Titanic Show” is a fun, family-friendly musical comedy that still pays respect to the great tragedy and resulting deaths.
The tale grew from the curiosity of violinist Adrian Garrett, cellist Sian Kadifachi and violist Jon Regan. It’s well known that musicians on the Titanic played throughout the tragedy but these modern-day virtuosos couldn’t help but wonder about those—forgive me – plucky souls and their backgrounds.
Although much about them is unknown, the threesome created a plausible, yet comedic, storyline that incorporates much of the music played on the White Star Line’s Titanic including “White Star March.”
The story basically unfolds as two men (Garrett and Regan) are hired to entertain and amuse the mostly high-class passengers on the luxury liner, where first-class accommodations mimicked appointments in some of the finest estates in Europe.
Soon after setting up to perform, the duo is joined by Kadifachi who they believe is a male cellist.
Fun begins as the three engage in verbal jousts and physical comedy that includes rolling across the stage on boards as they continue to beautifully play their instruments.
A “Mr. Peanut” character (if you haven’t seen one, ask your parents), two Styrofoam-like icebergs (honestly – they’re funny to see), and some audience participation are interspersed with real-life shots of the interior of the Titanic, shown through a giant porthole at the rear of the stage.
Another highlight are some black-and-white films of the threesome in character after they wake up ashore after the tragedy – and right after it’s discovered that the cello player is indeed a woman.
In relating the story, it’s impossible to relay the charm of the show, the incredible talent of the players or the joy that’s brought to the audience, who on a recent evening seemed to range in age from about 5 to 80.
As one theatergoer said upon exiting this show, it’s a perfect vehicle to introduce children to classical music and learn about an important slice of history while having fun.
And what a lovely way to honor those whose lives were taken or drastically altered by The Titanic.
If you go
“Pluck — The Titanic Show”
Where: The Bethesda Theatre, 7719 Wisconsin Ave., Bethesda
When: Various times through March 1
Details: $25 to $50; 301-657-7827; bethesdatheatre.com
