Keeping Company with Sondheim

In the realm of theatre, few names evoke the same sense of grandeur and musical sophistication as Stephen Sondheim. The composer and lyricist had been a titan in the industry for decades, with a catalog of works that have been celebrated and beloved by audiences the world over. One of his most iconic and enduring works, however, had long been overdue for a reimagining: Company. First seen on Broadway in 1970, this musical was a groundbreaking exploration of marital relationships and the challenges of balancing one's own desires with the expectations of society. And when Tony-winning director Marianne Elliott set out to bring a reimagined, gender-swapped production of Company to the Great White Way during one of the most tumultuous eras in modern history, the potential for a truly unforgettable theatrical experience was bound to unfold. As the film "Keeping Company with Sondheim" reveals, the journey to bringing this ambitious production to life was far from straightforward. Filmed over the course of two years, the documentary takes a fly-on-the-wall look at the creative process at the heart of Elliott's vision for this reimagined staging of Company. From rehearsals and early performances to intimate discussions with the original cast members and the show's celebrated composer, the film offers a riveting behind-the-scenes glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of bringing this ambitious production to the stage. At the center of the film is Tony-winning director Marianne Elliott, a master thespian and creative force behind some of the most innovative and daring productions of the past few decades. With her characteristic passion and attention to detail, Elliott guides the audience through the development of her vision for this reimagined production of Company. As Elliott explains in the film, her goal was to update the musical for the 21st century while remaining true to the original's timeless themes and emotions. This would require a delicate balancing act between staying faithful to Sondheim's original work and introducing new elements that would resonate with modern audiences. Central to Elliott's vision was the decision to cast Katrina Lenk and Patti LuPone in the roles of Amy and Bobbie, the two central characters in the show. Both actresses brought immense talent and star power to their respective roles, and their performances are a highlight of the film. Through intimate interviews, the documentary offers a fascinating glimpse into the process by which these actresses approached their roles and, working closely with Elliott, infused the show with a new level of depth and emotional complexity. One of the most compelling aspects of "Keeping Company with Sondheim" is its exploration of the original Company and its creators. The film features conversations with several members of the original cast, including Elaine Paige and Larry Kert. Through these interviews, a fascinating portrait emerges of the theatrical and cultural context in which Company first premiered. We learn about the groundbreaking nature of the show's exploration of relationships, marriage, and the search for meaning in one of the most tumultuous eras in recent American history. As the documentary progresses, we also see the remarkable story of Stephen Sondheim, the visionary composer and lyricist behind Company. In several candid interviews, Sondheim offers insights into the show's creation and, in particular, his collaboration with George Furth on the book. Sondheim's contributions to Company are legendary, and the film is a testament to his enduring influence on the world of musical theatre. Throughout the film, we also see the extraordinary story of Broadway's struggles during the COVID-19 pandemic. As the Great White Way struggled to survive in the face of one of the greatest crises in recent history, Company emerged as a beacon of hope and renewal. Shot on the West End and later on Broadway, the documentary captures the raw emotion and vulnerability of the cast and crew as they struggled to bring the show to life in a city on the brink of collapse. Ultimately, "Keeping Company with Sondheim" is a testament to the power and versatility of musical theatre. Through its behind-the-scenes look at the creative process and its exploration of the cultural and historical context in which Company first premiered, the film offers a rich and nuanced portrait of the theatre as an institution that reflects and shapes the society we live in. As the film concludes, it leaves the audience with a sense of wonder and awe at the enduring magic of musical theatre, and a deeper appreciation for the creative vision and artistic genius of its legendary figures: Stephen Sondheim, the master composer and lyricist, and his collaborators and interpreters, both past and present.