In the musical Violet, the title character sets off on a Greyhound bus to find her miracle at the hands of a healing evangelist (Paul Floriano), and ends up discovering friendship, romance and ultimately love instead. Stirring music by Jeanine Tesori and insightful lyrics and book by Brian Crawley -- based on the short story "The Ugliest Pilgrim" by Doris Betts -- allow Violet (and Violet) to tell her story without pathos or pity.

The material is handled with care by director Steven C. Anderson. Under his guidance, viewers feel as if they are taking the trip right alongside Violet, practically as if they were seat mates. 

Anderson has also picked the perfect travel buddies for this emotional ride, an ensemble of powerful actors with equally powerful voices. Fritsche is completely compelling as the older Violet, asserting her independence every step of the way along her journey. Cosentino is captivating as young Violet, joyful and hopeful and full of life. As the preacher, Floriano brings a perfect mix of showmanship and sensitivity to the role. Dane Castle also makes a lasting impression as the girl's gregarious but guilt-ridden father. Jared Dixon and Ian Benjamin hit all the comic and serious notes as a pair of soldiers vying for Violet's affections.

The rest of the company -- Allisyn Just, Shamara Costa, Katey Sheehan, Lindsay Simon, Jimmy Ferko, and Julian Kazenas -- portray a variety of vivid characters with admirable fervor...

READ THE FULL REVIEW AT:

http://inthelandofcleve.blogspot.com/2015/07/cleve-review-ksu-porthouse-theatres.html