Over 20 familiar songs from the Great American Songbook take center stage along with a brand new script as the Winnipesaukee Playhouse presents the world premiere musical It Had to be You.
Producing Artistic Director Neil Pankhurst created a story which weaves together favorite songs from George Gershwin, Irving Berlin, and more including “Lady be Good,” “Fascinating Rhythm,” “The Man I Love,” and the title song, “It Had to be You.” A lively story, great dancing, and catchy tunes make for an afternoon of entertainment on the Playhouse’s outdoor stage.
The play follows three young women from their high school graduation in 1916, through World War I, and up until the end of 1928. The three friends, played by Kelsey Andrae, Raquel Jennings, and Victoria Preisman, find themselves in and out of romantic entanglements with the men in their lives who are all played by a single actor, Caleb Albert. Loves gained, lost, and in some cases gained again are the backbone of the show and Pankhurst’s original script is complemented by songs which will have audiences humming on their way out.
Albert was last seen on the Playhouse stage in his award-nominated performance as Billy Flynn in Chicago. When not in New Hampshire, he can be found at Radio City Music Hall during the holidays as a singer in The Christmas Spectacular featuring the Radio City Rockettes. Preisman and Andrae are both returning to the Playhouse for their second and third productions, while Jennings is making her Playhouse debut.
The production is directed and choreographed by Bryan Knowlton who has won several awards for his work at the Playhouse which includes choreographing Chicago, Cabaret, and more, and directing and choreographing Mamma Mia! Orchestrator, arranger, and music director Michael G. Meketa is new to the Playhouse and has provided the outdoor venue with a big band sound. Costume designer Wendy Davidson, who joins the Playhouse after a nearly 20-year career with Norwegian Cruise Lines, provides the dozens of costumes for the show including the many different costumes Albert wears to represent all the men in the show.
It Had to be You runs through Sept. 18. Tickets range from $29-$39. The Playhouse is focused on safety and has published a page of COVID-19 protocols on their website to prepare patrons for what to expect when they attend the theatre. Protocols may change throughout the season as the situation evolves. Tickets for all productions can be purchased by calling the box office at (603) 279-0333.