"The Wedding Singer"

July 5, 2012 — My introduction to New Hampshire summer theatre almost 20 years ago was at the Papermill Theatre in Lincoln where the North Country Center for the Arts (NCCA) has been staging its performances for 26 years. I went many times with my mom, who shared my love of live theatre. During its first 23 years, NCCA held its plays in the old Paper Mill Machine Room #1 which had a rustic charm, but when it rained the ancient roof often failed to protect actors and audience.

Two years ago, when the old Machine Room and other mill buildings were leveled, the Loon Mountain Resort generously offered space for a stage and seating for an audience in the Governor's Lodge. This summer, NCCA's Papermill Theatre proudly opened its new home in the $2.6 million climate-controlled Jean's Playhouse (pictured). This facility will offer entertainment year-round.

On this night, for its first mainstage theatrical performance in the new theatre, the Papermill offered "The Wedding Singer," a musical comedy based on the 1998 movie with Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore. Tonight's performance featured Michael Stewart and Katharine McDonough in the Sandler/Barrymore roles, heading a talented, energetic, mostly young cast. For a first-night performance, it went very smoothly, except for a brief glitch right at the beginning when they had trouble getting their admittedly obsolete sound system in sync. The rather sparse stage set was supplemented by rear-projected images. The $40 admission is the highest of any New Hampshire summer theatre I regularly attend.

After the high-energy first act, which featured some great song and dance numbers, the second act flattened out at a slower pace, at least up until Kara Tripoli's brazenly provocative bedroom romp. Overall, it was a great show. The theatre was probably less than half full, but those who showed up for this opening night were very appreciative.

There's still much work to be done. Landscaping is underway. Acoustics are good in the new theatre, but their antiquated sound and lighting systems need to be replaced. I predict a bright future for the Papermill Theatre at Jean's Playhouse and look forward to continuing my patronage.