She Loves Me opened February 2 on the Springer Stage of the Palace Theatre. She Loves Me is the third adaptation of the 1937 play Parfumerie by Hungarian playwright Miklós László. Parfumerie inspired three movies: The Shop Around the Corner, In the Good Old Summertime, and in 1998, You've Got Mail starring Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks.
The original play was also adapted for the Broadway stage in 1963. She Loves Me became a classic and the 2016 Broadway revival was the first Broadway show to be live-streamed. The story centers around Georg and Amalia, clerks at Maraczek's Parfumerie. They bicker constantly and are unaware that each is the other's lonely-hearts pen pal.
The play closely follows The Shop Around the Corner movie. It takes place in 1934 Budapest, an enchanting city of ornamental fountains, luxury hotels and lavish architecture. The upscale Maraczek’s Parfumerie epitomizes the culture. Costumes designed by Aaron Kubacak reflect Old World sophistication.
The set is a huge part of the experience. Set Designer Mel Edwards has an impressive background with numerous awards and accolades. The elegant bustling European perfumery, filled with glamorous trappings of beauty, is outstanding! Bravo Ms. Edwards!
The charming rom-com includes miscommunication, biting banter and bad timing resulting in missed opportunities for romance. Amalia is played by Hannah Ferguson and Georg is portrayed by Jacob Rosenbaum. Jimmy Stewart and Margaret Sullivan had good chemistry in the same roles in The Shop Around the Corner. Ms. Ferguson and Mr. Rosenbaum bring a similar magnetism.
Coworkers include sassy Ilona, played by Daisy Greggio, and her smooth talking boyfriend Kodaly, played by Will Mallick. Ms. Greggio and Mr. Mallick are well cast and bring comic relief as well as a bit of mischief to the storyline.
Sweet, earnest delivery boy Laszlo is well played by Jake Jordan. Robert Joseph is very good as Sipos, fellow clerk and confidante to Georg. Mr. Jordan and Mr. Joseph are impressive in the memorable supporting roles.
Mr. Maraczek, owner of the parfumerie, is played by Bob Brandenburg who is new to the Austin area. His long and interesting career in entertainment includes performances in Universal Studios and writing/directing for Nickelodeon. Mr. Brandenburg’s portrayal is natural and believable.
Nick Xitco is Music Director. She Loves Me is one of his “all time favorite musicals.” Over twenty tunes set the mood, tell the story and entertain. The fine ensemble cast brings strong voices and nimble dancing. Hannah Ferguson stands out for hitting the high notes and Jake Jordan also showcased a nice vocal range.
The production was directed by Richard Cerato who has varied credentials that include broadway productions, music videos, commercials and international festivals. Mr. Cerato is also choreographer for the play. Mr. Cerato's fine directing brought both elegance and endearing innocence to the Palace stage with a strong cast, lovely music and a beautiful set.
The heartfelt love story has a timeless appeal that is ideal for Valentine’s celebrations!
She Loves Me runs weekends through March 3. Go to georgetownpalace.com for ticket information or call 512-869-746.