Strawberries in January – A Musical Fantasy is the kind of show that brings warmth and joy in the dead of winter. Presented by Centaur Theatre in collaboration with Théâtre Advienne que pourra, this musical adaptation of Evelyne de la Chenelière’s Des fraises en janvier offers a delightful mix of catchy tunes, quirky characters, and a romantic story that promises to melt even the iciest of hearts.
While the musical numbers are undoubtedly a highlight, the predictable love story and complex timeline might leave some audiences slightly puzzled, even if they’re still entertained.
A Familiar yet Charming Love Story
At the heart of Strawberries in January lies a love story that feels reminiscent of many feel-good romantic comedies, the kind you’d expect to see on a Hallmark channel movie marathon. While this is hardly a criticism – after all, who doesn’t enjoy a sweet and predictable tale of love – there’s a sense of déjà vu that runs through the narrative. The relationships between the four central characters, each struggling with their own romantic entanglements, unfold in ways that feel familiar. However, the emotional depth of these connections, combined with the heartfelt performances, prevents the story from ever feeling overly formulaic.
As the plot navigates the whimsical world of serendipity, chance encounters, and personal growth, the charming chemistry between the cast makes even the more predictable moments enjoyable. Eloi Archambaudoin, Ryan Bommarito, Métushalème Dary, and Madeleine Scovil offer engaging performances that bring the quirky characters to life, particularly when the songs get going.
The Musical Numbers: A Standout
Without a doubt, the strongest element of this production is the music. Strawberries in January boasts an impressive lineup of 18 original songs, each carefully woven into the story to enhance the emotional landscape. The lively arrangements, crafted by Nick Carpenter and Habib Zekri, lift the spirit, turning this production into a musical delight that resonates well with the audience.
Whether it’s a catchy, toe-tapping ensemble number or a poignant solo that tugs at the heartstrings, the music adds layers of richness to the storytelling. It’s clear that the production is carefully crafted to not just tell a story, but to make you feel it in every note. The live musicians, including Khalil Bouaziz, Quinn Dooley, Tobias Kimmelman, and Christophe Papadimitriou, also deserve credit for bringing the music to life with precision and energy.
A Complex Timeline, but Worth the Attention
One of the more ambitious aspects of Strawberries in January is its timeline. The story plays with the concept of time in a way that requires audiences to stay on their toes, particularly during the back-and-forth scenes that shift between past and present. While this technique adds depth to the narrative, it can also make the show a bit hard to follow at times. A closer look at each transition is necessary to fully appreciate the complexities of the relationships and the unfolding events. For those willing to pay attention, however, it’s an engaging puzzle that adds intrigue to the plot.
A Perfect Winter Escape
Despite these small narrative challenges, Strawberries in January does what it sets out to do: provide a heartwarming escape from the winter chill. The whimsical charm, uplifting music, and overall joyfulness of the production serve as a perfect remedy to combat the winter blues. The production might not break new ground in terms of its love story, but its exuberant energy and optimism shine through, making it a worthwhile experience if you’re a fan of musicals or just looking for a cozy evening out. Overall this heartwarming show is well worth the ticket.
Strawberries in January – A Musical Fantasy runs at Centaur Theatre until February 9, 2025. Get your tickets and let this charming winter tale sweep you off your feet.
For more information and tickets please visit : https://centaurtheatre.com/shows/strawberries-in-january/
Performance Details:
Dates: Tuesday, January 21 to Sunday, February 9, 2025
Times: Tuesdays to Saturdays at 8:00 PM, with matinees on Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00 PM
French surtitles: January 30 and 31 at 8:00PM; February 1 at 2:00PM
Location: Centaur 1, Centaur Theatre, 453 St. Francois-Xavier, Montreal
Tickets: Prices range from $22 to $68, with subscription rates, group rates, and student/senior discounts available. Tickets can be purchased at www.centaurtheatre.com or by phone at 514-288-3161.