Review: Mill Town Players "Aquarius" is a Gas

Greg Wilson/Anderson Observer

Mill Town Player’s “The Age of Aquarius” offers a magic carpet ride to some of the tunes that helped define the late 1960s. It’s a fun ride.

The opening night crowd, including more than a few who donned tie-dye clothing and other period apparel, spent the evening singing along (or at least mouthing the lyrics quietly) along with the cast who brought the production to life. For those of a certain age, it was like a return to days not forgotten.

Without offering a playlist of songs - part of the fun is waiting to discover what song will come next - but the production covered territory that included the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, the Doors and Janis Joplin, all backed by a band that was more than up to the task.

Lead guitarist Shaw Allen found the pocket on the Jimi Hendrix classic “Purple Haze,” and continued his fine work throughout the show. The only downside was many of his solos and licks were hidden from the audience by a large music stand.  

The rest of the band, bassist Greg Day (who also served as band leader) with his Pete Townshend-like hopping provided solid rhythm, while drummer Kip Brock brought his always steady hand and backbeat to the songs.

On keyboards Rick Connor (musical director) shined throughout the keys-heavy sound, and rhythm guitarist Wilmer showed flashes of hot chops across the show’s musical set. 

The group paved the way for the singers to find an energetic groove, and boy did they, with some big solo voices and strong ensemble numbers.

Brian Reeder, full Afro on display, had his peace symbol dancing on its chain much of the night with near show-stopping performances, infusing riotous enthusiasm into every song. Following a superb performance in “A Streetcar Named Desire,” Reeder again shows why he is among the best.

Matthew Merritt channels Mick Jagger and Jim Morrison with his stage-sprawling struts, cock-sure attitude and microphone stand gymnastics, nailing the era’s signature swagger, especially on “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” which was indeed a gas.

Beverly Clowney soars in a smoky “I Put a Spell on You,” while Aviyana Suber brings full range to Janis Joplin in “Me and Bobby McGee.” Both women found just the right vocal licks from the very start and brought range and dynamic to the entire production.

And Will Landrum, who sang mostly backup in the first third of the show, brings the biggest surprise with his spin on Beatles tunes with a voice that commanded attention and brought smiles throughout the well-known songs. 

The staging and sound, as usual were spot on, a trademark of the Mill Town Players. See full list of those who made this production sing here.

“The Age of Aquarius: A Psychedelic 60s Rock Concert,” continues through April 30 in at the historic Pelzer Auditorium. Tickets available here.

Photos courtesy of Escobar Photography.