Theatre Review by Jackie Houchin

Like all good Scottish tales, "Brigadoon,"the delightful musical now playing at the Glendale Centre Theatre, contains sweet romance, bawdy comedy and a touch of poignancy.

It also has a score full of lovely romantic songs, like my favorite, "Almost Like Being in Love."

The story is about a magical village that appears for one day every 100 years. There are laws that protect the town and keep its inhabitants safe from outside influence, but they are about to be tested.

Two young men from New York ( Tim Dietlein as Tommy and Kelly Flynn as Jeff) get lost while on a hunting trip and stumble upon Brigadoon just as it is appearing in the mist.

The town is preparing for the wedding of Charlie Dalrymple (played by Allen Everman, who has the tenor voice of an angel) and "bonnie" Jean MacLaren (played by Stephanie Simpson in this performance).

The inhabitants are full of celebratory joy - and perhaps a pint or two of ale -and burst into song and dance in the rousing "Down on MacConnachy Square."

Tommy is drawn to the sweet lass Fiona ( Kelley O'Hurley), who takes him gathering "Heather on the Hill." Meanwhile, Jeff is shanghaied by the shamelessly husband-seeking Meg ( Rachel McLaughlan), who regales him with her hilarious account of "The Love of My Life."

But a black cloud is hovering on the horizon of Brigadoon. The brooding and darkly handsome Harry Beaton ( Chris Ciccarelli) is hopelessly in love with the unavailable bride-to-be. His jealousy boils beneath the surface and finally explodes in a moment of passion that threatens the very existence of Brigadoon.

Then Tommy and Jeff are given the choice to stay or return to New York, and they make the difficult decision. "This is so sad," commented one audience member.

But remember, this is a Lerner & Loewe Broadway musical, and you are guaranteed to leave the theater with a smile on your face and a tune in your heart.

GCT's costumes ( Angela Wood & the Costume Shoppe) are once again top quality. The display of tartans at the wedding ceremony was especially well done.

Choreographer Stephanie Simpson deserves kudos for the ensemble dances, and the precision "Sword Dance."

Talented veteran character-actors Mario DiGregorio (Andrew MacLaren) and Don Woodruff (the gentle historian, Mr. Lundie) are welcome additions to any GCT production.

"Brigadoon"plays 8 p.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays, with Saturday and Sunday matinees at 3 p.m. until Aug. 30.

General admission is $22.50-$25.50. Senior admission is $20. For reservations, call 818-244-8481.

The theater is located at 324 N. Orange St., Glendale.