Ric Iverson is a consummate Bay Area theatrical treasure, who, as reported in Tabard Theatre’s press release for his new one man show, The Good Times & The Rain: 50 Years in Denver, “has performed all over the Bay Area as a musician and musical theatre actor, including such roles as Teen Angel in Grease, Will Rogers in Will Rogers Follies, and Peter Jones Jr. in Cumberland Blues.” I remember him well in my days as a theatre critic in the Greater Bay Area. I had occasion recently to reminisce over his fine performance as Bob Cratchit San Jose Rep’s excellent production of A Christmas Carol.
In The Good Times & The Rain: 50 Years in Denver, Mr. Iverson has created a cabaret performance that essentially tells the story of his life fueled by the music of John Denver and his own original songs, and what a story it is. With wit and humor, and not a little pathos, he tells of his life as a gay man with all its joys and difficulties, the triumphs and tribulations, the hurdles and trials that ultimately led to the rewards of a stable life with a husband and children. As the show progresses through Ric’s life journey, he tells his story in affecting words and song and with humor and pathos.
Early in the show, he brings on his “best friend,” Annmarie Macry, whom he takes pains to say is “not a fag hag.” She is a powerful performer in her own right and a Bay Area theatrical veteran who has played principal roles in numerous productions. She scores in a terrific performance of “Tell Me Something Boy.”
It is always a bold move to create and perform a solo performance. Ric Iverson has hit a home run.
The Good Times & The Rain: 50 Years in Denver runs on demand through May 30. Tickets are 15-$45. www.tabardtheatre.org or call (408) 679-2330.
Paul Myrvold's Theatre Notes 