The ensemble is stellar, especially Mary VanArsdel, a comedic talent of the old school.
Mary VanArsdel, a fine example of the fading tradition of character actresses as bristling Miss Shingle.
Mary VanArsdel, playing Miss Shingle, steals every scene she’s in.
The evening’s first showstopper, ‘You’re A D’Ysquith’, performed with comic abandon by the wonderful Mary VanArsdel is a tough act to follow…
Filled with fine vocals, especially from…..Mary VanArsdel
Mary VanArsdel offers a lovely rendition of “Feed The Birds.
Mary VanArsdel was impressive as The Bird Woman.
VanArsdel, a generous, rich-voiced artist….is valiant…and tosses her 11:00 number past the balcony.
Mary VanArsdel communicates with her eyes as well as her tongue, demonstrating the legerdemain of an enormously skilled artist. She is outstanding.
…(VanArsdel) is delivering a smashing performance in a promising new musical. We hope this gifted performer keeps reaching for her dreams.
VanArsdel has her character wrapped around her little finger and never misses a beat or a nuance.
The marvelous Mary VanArsdel will break your heart 25 different ways in a 30 minute scene with her sweet vulnerability and blunt openness.
VanArsdel does wonders with the most difficult role in the show. Her spiky, self-protective comedy believably gives way to a cautioned vulnerability.
The Production really belongs to VanArsdel, who dominates the stage with an intensity that is both brittle and vulnerable.
Mary VanArsdel uses a grand smile and theatrical singing voice to create a comic gem who marches not to the beat of a different drummer but to a completely different orchestra.
A bright spot was provided by….singer-actress Mary VanArsdel, who put her lovely, full soprano and charming manner to excellent use in a series of musical comedy solos and duets….She seemed in total command and performed with joy and style.
...it is evident from the time Mary VanArsdel first opens her mouth that she has learned her lessons well. As Candide’s ill-fated lover, Cunegonda, VanArsdel is astonishing…..Best of all, she can act.