Merrily We Roll Along at Midland Center for the Arts

This weekend’s performance of Merrily We Roll Along by Center Stage Theatre at the Midland Center for the Arts was a classic Sondheim experience: vibrant, witty, emotionally complex, and absolutely worth the ride. Directed by Chad William Baker, with music direction by Mike Skutt and choreography by Faith Dore, the production captured all the energy and nuance of this backward-told tale of friendship, ambition, and the unexpected turns of life in show business.

Each cast member brought a fully realized character to the stage, making the story feel fresh and electric. Noah Walther gave a standout performance as Franklin Shepard, carrying the emotional weight of the show with charisma and depth. Having recently seen him in a more solemn role (The Diary of Anne Frank) it was striking to witness his vocal power and versatility as he moved through Frank’s journey from hopeful dreamer to jaded success — and back again.

Erin Whitfield as Mary delivers a performance full of heart, humor, and honesty. With sharp comedic timing and a warm presence that anchors the story’s central friendship. Jared Kaufman (Charley) had the audience laughing big throughout  the show, especially during his whirlwind performance of “Franklin Shepard, Inc.” Lexie Schultz (Beth) delivered a striking and heartbreaking “Not a Day Goes By” that stuck with me long after the last note. Kaitlyn Bess Riel made Gussie a force to be reckoned with in red — stylish, commanding, and delightfully complicated. And Kyler Syring brought strength and sincerity to Joe, Gussie’s supportive husband who helped launch her career into stardom.

The ensemble was tight, energetic, and clearly having a blast throughout the show. The entire cast was an absolute joy to watch. Costumes and staging beautifully evoked the 1960s–’70s New York setting, giving the show nostalgic charm and grit.

Sondheim’s score hits a full range of emotions, and this cast delivered — from the chaotic hope of “Opening Doors” to the energetic showstopping “It’s a Hit” to the ache of the reprise of “Not a Day Goes By.” Above all, the show was genuinely funny, full of sharp timing and heartfelt moments.

Merrily We Roll Along is a reflection on dreams, detours, and the bittersweet soundtrack of growing older. This cast embraced all of it — and gave us a production well worth celebrating.

Highly recommended.f