Lend Me A Tenor's Big Night At The Perry's

From the time when Readington Community Theatre (RCT) first staged Lend Me a Tenor in 2008 to the debut of its revival in 2020, a lot has changed for RCT. Venue changes, huge advances in technology and set design, and the expansion of a tight-nit community sharing a passion for live theatre. So when original cast members received Rob Nonni's phone call to discuss reviving the show, excitement was high. The result was four original cast members returning to the cast and careful casting to replace the remaining roles. Then the fun began.

During the first table read of the script, those familiar with the show couldn't help but notice the recent changes to modernize the play. However, these changes only add to the hilarity of the show, without changing the overall story. Some would argue it actually improved the comedic value of the show.

The dynamic of rehearsals was very interesting, with the knowledge of those who had performed this show before shared with those who hadn't, and a close eye to the small details that could bring out the amazing humor in the script.

Fast forward to opening night. Rob (Tito) and Matt (Max) stand on stage a few minutes prior to doors opening to rehearse their duet one last time. The sounds of phones ringing and door knocking can be heard over the speakers as the tech team makes final tweaks to audio. The electricity of opening night at a new venue is certainly felt throughout the cast and Lend Me a Tenor did not disappoint. It even went on to receive 9 Perry Award Nominations and was awarded Best Direction.

The nominations included:

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Play: Denise Hickson (Maria) and Stephanie DiPilla (Maggie)

Outstanding Production of a Play: Rob Nonni and Lona Nonni

Outstanding Direction of a Play: Rob Nonni and Lona Nonni

Outstanding Lighting Design of a Play: Robert Herko and Don Schlachter

Outstanding Sound Design of a Play: Robert Herko and Frank Bergson

Outstanding Costumes of a Play: Joanne Vinciguerra and Cynthia Okamoto

Outstanding Properties in a Play: Joanne Vinciguerra

Outstanding Scenic Design of a Play: Frank Bergson

Congratulations to Rob and Lona for winning the Perry Award for Outstanding Direction and to the entire cast and crew of Lend Me a Tenor! Click below to view more photos from the show!