Players doff hats, raise Consistory roof / By Martha Knight

COUDERSPORT—The revue presented by the Potter-McKean Players Friday and Saturday nights was like Forrest Gump’s mom’s box of chocolates. There were surprises, and variety, and much that was delicious.

Grace and Nora Keir, grade schoolers who provided the perfect “Sweet and Low” counterpoint to Keystone Express’s fine “Lida Rose,” won the biggest ovation of the evening. Daughters of quartet leader Chris Keir, the diminutive sisters were poised, just shy enough to seem unassuming, and sang like larks. Gumm Sisters with two budding Judy Garlands? Could be.

Gloria Richardson’s directorial skills were the star that did not receive the billing it deserved, as her magical way with a group of voices brought forth a blend that was more than the sum of the singers. Weeks of three-hour rehearsals paid off, with smooth repositioning on stage, fluid gestures, and generally clean diction, attacks and releases.

If here and there a soloist was not in the best voice, the over-all effect was of excellent singers presenting those hit songs well, with some moments of soundtrack excellence. The Richardson touch can call forth effects from reverent to Manhattan Transfer-jazzy, nearly always in perfect balance and pitch-perfect.

A sentimental favorite was Bob “Smitty” Smith’s brief turn as the “Yankee Doodle Dandy.” The audience responded warmly, knowing that Smitty has entertained them in many a show over many a year, and will still give them his best effort.

Some of the highlights of the 90-minute show came in the four musical interludes that interspersed the six segments covering Broadway periods, and the epilogue.

Angela Gerhart displayed a fine range in several solos and duets. Paired with Ted Bear in “All I Ask of You,” she reached into her upper register for some high notes, with the effortless aplomb of Willy Mays climbing the air for a catch.

David Hauber displayed his quartet lead quality in Keystone Express, and in duets and ensembles throughout the evening.

Denny Bloss’s polished performances are expected, but no less pleasing for that. His powerful, perfectly controlled voice can reach the audience from the wings, or anywhere on stage. And the man can be wickedly funny, when the occasion warrants.

The six-piece band did justice to the score and provided able support to the singers. The Essence of Motion Dance Company added that extra something to several numbers.

What one seasoned follower of area little theater productions pronounced well worth the price of the ticket, all by itself, was “Keep On Rollin’,” the “Smokey Joe’s Café” number. The Denny Bloss, Stephen Sevinsky, Ted Bear and David Hauber quartet and the midnight-flyer momentum of the band were perfectly set off by the outstanding, lonesome whistle and blues artistry of Art Metzger’s harmonica.

Richardson has done good work as accompanist and vocalist with the Players before, and displayed directorial chops in the community, but for this production she brought along a number of fine singers from North Country Voices, another group she leads. Much of this performance was drawn from a Broadway centennial salute previously presented by the Voices in 2008, but additional material was included. The ample stage and sound chamber of the Consistory showcased the performers.

Red and black costumes popped with color. Performers’ footwork and stylish airs did justice to their top-hatted elegance.

As for the Players’ president and usual director, Paul Herzig, he did a cameo in a medley, singing “Mame” with his usual flair, and shared narration duties with Jackie Fosmer.

Present plans do not call for another Players production this year, but there is talk of a full musical next year, possibly “Mama Mia.” With more of the Players “regulars” back, and all or most of the cast of “Hats Off to Broadway,” that would be a winner.