The Journal

The Webster University Conservatory of Theatre Arts is beginning its theater season with the musical drama "Company," which opened Sept. 30 and runs through Oct. 4. The musical by Stephen Sondheim is the first of six shows the Conservatory will produce for the 2009-2010 season.

"Company" revolves around Bobby, a man who can't commit to a steady relationship, let alone marriage. The play takes place in Bobby's apartment on his 35th birthday. His friends, mostly marred couples, have thrown a surprise party for him. None of the married couples know each other; they are all connected in some way by Bobby.

When Bobby goes to blow out the candles on his birthday cake, he wishes for nothing, not even marriage. He says in the play that all he needs are his friends, his company.

What follows is a number of scenes modeling each of the couples' relationships, in no particular order, between themselves and with Bobby. At the beginning of the play, Bobby is optimistic about entering a serious relationship and pursuing marriage. The play then shows three of Bobby's past relationships, none of which end well. Bobby gives up on the idea of ever marrying, but still wishes for someone whom he can share his life with. The play ends with Bobby blowing out his birthday candles.

"It is much more about how people deal with one another to complete ourselves," said David Caldwell, the guest director for "Company."

Caldwell, originally from Ohio, has been living in New York City since 1989. After acting for 10 years, he decided to try his hand at directing in 1995. Today, he is the artistic director for the Gretna Timbers theatre in Mt. Gretna, Pa. Caldwell has been invited to WU to direct plays since 2003 and directed five other plays before coming back to direct "Company."

"I'm able to find work," said freelance director Caldwell. "That's an achievement."
Caldwell said his favorite part about directing "Company" is the small venue the WU's Repertory Theatre offers. He added that a small venue gives the play a more intimate feel.

"The play takes place in Bobby's living room," he said. "The audience feels like they are in the living room, watching everything."

Steven Woolf, an adjunct director in the theater and dance department, directed "Company" at the Repertory 20 years ago.

"It's musically brilliant in capturing the sense of New York City," Woolf said. "It's a wonderful piece that is beautifully written."

Woolf said, even though the characters in "Company" are in their mid-30s and early-40s, the theme in the story can speak to everyone.

"The basic desire to reach out is universal," Woolf said.

Katie Bland is one of the actors in "Company." She plays Joann, one of the married women and Bobby's oldest friend in the play.

"I really didn't decide to be in the show," Bland said. "I auditioned for three and ended up being in this one. But out of all the shows, I wanted to be in this one the most."

Bland said her favorite part of "Company" was watching Bobby transform from optimistic about pursuing a relationship to not wanting to be in one at all.

"In this day, it really does (speak to people)," Bland added. "The issues are prevalent because, as society continues, there is less reason to get married."

Caldwell is impressed by the professionalism the Conservatory has shown with "Company."

"I am very surprised with the level of talent I see at Webster," Caldwell added.

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