By David Vitrano
L’Observateur

RESERVE – When rock and roll was in its infancy, one of its dominant forces was the girl group, that harmonizing producer of pristeen pop perfection. Culminating with the chart-topping success of the Supreme’s, many of the era’s most popular songs were belted out in three- or four-part harmony.
St. John Theatre’s latest offering, “The Marvelous Wonderettes,” opening Friday, attempts to recapture that period with a show that is equal parts tribute and musical.
The show is relatively unknown in these parts, but director Darryl Clement thinks that will not be a barrier to audience enjoyment. The show was suggested by a former frequent performer on the stage, and according to Clement, “(The board) just fell in love.”
And there was another appeal.
“It was all girls, so that’s easier to cast,” said Clement.
The cast consists of just four young women, most of them familiar faces on the Reserve stage. It stars Chrissy Carter, Colleen Robinson, Tammi Marshall and relative newcomer Carly Trepagnier, who in past shows has been a part of the ensemble but has never had a lead role at St. John Theatre.
“It’s definitely been the most challenging role I’ve had,” said Trepagnier. “Learning to sing in such close harmony, there’s no room for error.”
But the challenges of performing in a two-act show in which each of the four cast members is on stage the entire time have extended to Trepagnier’s more experienced castmates, as well.
“These are ladies who are used to singing lead parts,” said Clement.
The challenges, however, have made this experience all the more memorable for the group.
“It’s been amazingly fun,” said Carter. “Darryl teaches so well. Although it’s a challenge, it really is the most fun I’ve had.”
The show centers on the four singing partners as they entertain their friends and classmates at the senior prom and then reunite 10 years later. Although there is a storyline, the music is the real star of the show.
“I think people will love this because there’s so much music involved,” said Clement.
And unlike more traditional musicals, even those who do not usually enjoy musical theater may find themselves bobbing their heads and tapping their feet to the vast array of popular tunes such as “Mr. Sandman,” “It’s My Party,” and “Son of a Preacher Man.”
“The Marvelous Wonderettes” runs March 1, 2, 8 and 9 at 7:30 p.m. each night. General admission tickets are available in advance through Allied Express in LaPlace by calling 985-651-9655 or at the door before each performance. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children and seniors. For more information, please call 504-676-4700. St. John Theatre is located at 115 W. Fourth St. in Reserve.