“It’s Never Too Late” to Have the Time of Our Life
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
by April Johnson
I had the privilege to view the world premiere of the original musical It’s Never Too Late on Saturday, April 4th at the Kelsey Theater at Mercer presented by Theater to Go Production Company.
Starting as a means of catharsis, Lou DiPietro (Book & Lyrics) created a show idea seven years ago relating to his experiences of playing professional baseball in the Minor Leagues in search of a big break. Expecting that his chances of making the Major League was slim, DiPietro made a harrowing decision to walk away from the sport that he dearly loved. Teaming with Louis Josephson (Music/Orchestrations/Music Direction/Conductor) breathed melodic life into the production with the assistance of an accomplished nine-person ensemble. Through the Direction of Producer Ruth Markoe, what began as a staged reading in 2025 was transferred to the stage and transformed into a moving and living show. “Lou’s play resonates deeply with audiences, exploring how we move forward in life without being shackled by regret.” Upon reflection of the production, Markoe is spot-on.
It’s Never Too Late is a story of the friendship and connection of three couples who have endured love, loss, triumphs and indiscretions and have come to an impasse of remaining friends.
It’s Never Too Late opens with Matt running into his old flame, Julie, popularly known as Bunny Hendrix, the one who got away (and moved back into town). He begins to reconsider his current relationship and hopes to pursue the old love. He admits to his best friend Adam that he is reigniting this love, which he mentions is a foolish decision. However, Matt relishes in his reawakened feelings.
Adam finds himself between a rock and a hard place and spills the beans about Matt’s rekindled affair to his wife June. June, who happens to be the best friend and former singing partner of her husband’s best friend’s wife (whew, I sound like I’m on the phone starting gossip), feels obligated to save her best friend’s marriage. She sets up a soiree for her best friends, including another couple, Susan and Frank, who provides comic relief and pure affection toward each other and their toys, namely Frank’s beloved classic vehicle. Throughout the meet, Matt’s irritation grows toward Barbara, who is beginning to question that Matt may be seeing someone. Unrelated to the affair, Bunny is brought into the conversation that she is back in town.
To bring up the affair, there is a plot twist—June asks Adam if she should discuss her own “situation”. As a result, Pandora’s Box is opened. Many questions arise; old wounds are re-opened along with unearthed resentment that may never heal among the crew.
Cassaundra Reed gave a radiant performance as the glamorous June. She was born for this role. Jim Petro served as the emotional compass and melted our hearts as the endearing Adam. Jennifer Fischer’s portrayal of Barbara was exceptional. Her phenomenal voice was a penetrating treat to the ears and soul. Phil Zipkin proficiently maneuvered the role of the philandering Matt with brutally emotionally charged acting. Jim Morris naturally delivered comic relief as Frank. Reba Holley complemented Jim’s comedic presence as the equally humorous Susan. Exerting their versatility of talents,
Neil Devlin as Young Adam/Server, Charlotte Caldejon as Young June/Server, and
Brenna Peerbolt as Young Barbara/Patron rounded out the cast in supportive roles.
Production wise, simplicity and efficiency were key. Christine Heffron lent her skills as Stage Manager with Kimbery Correll as Asst. Stage Manager ensuring timely cues and
seamless set changes. Shawn Simmons created buildable scenery (living room,
eateries) as Set Design/Construction. Sound was crisp and clear thanks to Sound
Designer Eric Collins. M. Kitty Getlik provided a cozy ambiance with Lighting Design. Laura Ghaffoor delivered gliding moments of love and joy as Choreographer. Costume Design was modestly mapped by Melissa Rittman.
Led by Music Director/Orchestrator/Conductor Louis Josephson was the divine nine
piece orchestra: Susan French (Violin 1), Angela Fiedler (Violin 2), Jessie Englander
(Reed 1), Christopher Burrow (Reed 2), Miguel Sutedjo (Piano), Callum Murphy
(Guitar), Elisabeth Chang (Cello), Skyler Volpe (Bass), and Shane Corwin (Drums).
As a lover and performer of the theatre, this production treatment was well conceived. The story and music were beautifully married. I do believe that certain characters and their relationships could have been explored and further developed, especially Barbara and June’s after a certain comment was strongly made regarding their former partnership; maybe segueing a duet possibly joining their younger characters. Barbara’s personality left a lasting impression, and it would have been great to dig deeper into her journey and her thoughts. To add more depth to the reconciliation, I would have loved to see June join Adam in the 11 o’clock number or paralleling their younger selves to tie them together. Complementary underscoring for certain ominous, comical or romantic moments would be an added plus. Overall, this production is a good watch and has room for excellence. This story is about reconciliation and forgiveness not just with others but within to have the time of their life. And I’m here for all the possibilities.
It's Never Too Late will convene on Saturday, April 11th and Sunday, April 12th. The show is approximately two hours with a 15-minute intermission followed by a meet and greet afternoon tea reception with the cast in the lobby. Tickets are available at kelseytheatre.org.
