Sara Hirsch
Side by Side by Sondheim is a three-person revue celebrating one of the best-known names in musical theatre: Stephen Sondheim. This musical showcase is a safe bet for fans of the American composer/lyricist who brought us classics such as Into the Woods, Sweeney Todd, and Company. The two-act show romps through some of his greatest hits (with some lesser known gems thrown in too). With thematic commentary and quirky asides, the intermittent narration, guiding us through Sondheim’s career highlights, makes up for the lack of storyline. The musical itself is an old friend to this theatre as this production commemorates the 40th anniversary of the original Side by Side at Circa in 1979. This show is well executed with some real stand out moments but it feels like a struggle for the performers, making hard to relax into and enjoy.