Gaithersburg, MD – – Damascus Theatre Company’s production of Stephen Sondheim’s Company, currently playing at the Gaithersburg Arts Barn, is earning praise for its faithful and emotionally resonant staging of the landmark musical. The production, running through , distinguishes itself by resisting contemporary theatrical trends in favor of clarity and a deep respect for Sondheim’s original vision.
Company, which premiered in 1970 with music and lyrics by Sondheim and a book by George Furth, broke ground with its unconventional structure and unflinching examination of modern relationships. The musical centers on Bobby, a 35-year-old bachelor grappling with commitment as he observes the complexities of marriage through his circle of friends. The production underscores the musical’s enduring relevance, highlighting the universal need for vulnerability and connection.
Director Rachelle A. Horn, alongside musical director Keith Edward, has opted for a straightforward approach, prioritizing the original construction and tonal elegance of the work. This decision stands in contrast to some recent revivals, such as the 2021 gender-bending Broadway production, which embraced modernization. Horn’s direction focuses on the social dynamics between characters, and is complemented by Karen Kushner Creel’s choreography, which honors the musical’s original spirit without feeling dated.
The strength of the production lies in its ensemble cast of 14, who collectively capture the nuances of relationships. Ethan Kahwaty delivers a compelling performance as Bobby, imbuing the character with both emotional weight and vocal prowess. His portrayal effectively conveys Bobby’s yearning for connection alongside his commitment anxieties.
Supporting Kahwaty are strong performances across the board. Michael Rudmann and Chrissy Barnett Miller, as the combative couple Harry and Sarah, bring a comedic edge to their portrayal of domestic tension. Their scenes, punctuated by Daniel Amaguaña’s fight choreography, provide moments of levity. Nicholas Eden and Katherine Eden, portraying Peter and Susan, offer a more subdued, yet equally insightful, depiction of a relationship that appears perfect on the surface but harbors underlying complexities.
The production also showcases standout performances from Leah Chiaverini as Marta, whose powerful vibrato and confident stage presence elevate “Another Hundred People,” and Melanie Kurstin as Amy, who captures the neurotic humor of “Getting Married Today.” Lee Michele Rosenthal as Joanne and Bob Bryant as Larry deliver a nuanced portrayal of a long-term relationship, highlighting both its joys and challenges.
The set design, also by Rachelle A. Horn, contributes to the production’s elegant aesthetic. A minimalist backdrop depicting the New York City skyline, constructed by Jim Korte and Bill Rippey, reinforces the urban setting. The calming blue hues, achieved through the work of paint designer Maria Littlefield, evoke the melancholic atmosphere of 1970s city life.
Musically, the production remains faithful to Sondheim’s score, under the direction of conductor Stuart Y. Weich. While the orchestration is bright and well-executed, there were occasional moments where vocal projection struggled to overcome the band’s volume, a minor issue likely to resolve as the run continues.
Damascus Theatre Company’s Company is a testament to the power of trusting the source material and allowing the story to resonate through strong performances and thoughtful direction. The production reaffirms the enduring relevance of Sondheim’s work, not only for theatergoers but for anyone grappling with the complexities of human connection.
Tickets, priced at $25 for adults, $23 for students (ages 15-21), and $16 for youth (14 and under), are available for purchase online, at the Arts Barn box office, or by calling 301-258-6394. The show plays weekends through at the Gaithersburg Arts Barn, located at 311 Kent Square Road, Gaithersburg, MD. The production is recommended for ages 12 and up.
Company
Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim
Book by George Furth
Originally produced and directed on Broadway by Harold Prince
CAST
Bobby: Ethan Kahwaty
Sarah: Chrissy Barnett Miller
Harry: Michael Rudmann
Susan: Katherine Eden
Peter: Nicholas Eden
Jenny: Julia Donato
David: Adam Esrig
Amy: Melanie Kurstin
Paul: Drew Looney
Joanne: Lee Michele Rosenthal
Larry: Bob Bryant
Marta: Leah Chiaverini
Kathy: Mary Efimetz
April: Alexis Levien (Understudy: Ally Harnsberger)
ARTISTIC AND PRODUCTION TEAM
Director and Set Designer: Rachelle A. Horn
Music Director: Keith Edward
Producers: Mario Font & Elli Swink
Choreography: Karen Kushner Creel
Conductor: Stuart Y. Weich
Fight Choreographer: Daniel Amaguaña
Stage Manager: Michael Loebach
Technical Director/Lighting Design: Rick Swink
Sound Design: Michael Steimer & Rick Swink
Crew: Chris Spahn & Jen Willard
Set Construction/Master Carpenters: Jim Korte & Bill Rippey
Set Paint Design/Lead Painter: Maria Littlefield
Properties: Maria Littlefield & Ellie Swink
Set Construction/Painting: Bruce Clark, Mario Font, Rob Gale, Jim Korte, Bill Lebair, Kerry Marks, Bill Rippey, & Joy Wyne
Costume Design: Ginger Ager
Hair & Makeup Design: Ava Silberman
THE BAND
Keyboards: Matthew Dohm & Andrew Mauer
Percussion: Scott Luxenberg
Violin: Rachael Daudelin
Cello: Tom Zebovitz
French Horn: Sam Weich
Reed 1: Julia Pangelian & Dana Gardner (2/13–2/15)
Reed 2: Rose Weich
