July 10, 2002
'Dear World' starts slowly, picks up lots of steam

By Sharon Haddock
Deseret News staff writer

Left, Joan Barber (Constance), Maureen McGovern (Countess Aurelia) and Dee Macaluso (Gabrielle) in the Sundance Theater production of "Dear World," running through Aug. 17. Stuart Johnson, Deseret News

DEAR WORLD, Sundance Theatre, through Aug. 17, tickets available at 907-4050. Running time 2 hours 45 minutes.
      "Dear World" is an interesting mix. There's the old and new, the triumph of good over evil, pure fantasy and age-old truth, soulfulness and silliness.. . .
    Maureen McGovern does a credible job as Countess Aurelia, the Madwoman of Chaillot. Her vocal talent is clearly evident as she flawlessly covers the range of emotion in a number of difficult arrangements.
Joan Barber, as Mademoiselle Constance, and Dee Macaluso, as Mademoiselle Gabrielle, shine as women who have lost touch with reality but live their lives with gusto. . . .
     Together they make Countess Aurelia look altogether sane. And when all three get together, and particularly when they combine forces in a tea-party trio number, they're incredible to watch.
      In fact, every cast member in this revisited version of a Broadway show (that didn't succeed) does a good job. The vocals are excellent. The characterizations are superb.. . .
      As a show that offers something new, and some visual and musical candy, it's a good one. There are also some bawdy chucklers, and some great lines. . .