Every once and a while a show comes along that is just plain charming. The new musical, CUPID AND PSYCHE, based on the myth of the romance between the god and the princess, is one of those rare shows. I would be very surprised if, after this run at the tiny Houseman Studio Theater it does not reemerge in a larger space and with more liberal production values.

As presented, CUPID AND PSYCHE is ostensibly a cabaret-style retelling of the myth from the point of view of Venus, Cupid’s meddling mother. Played with catty sensuality by Laura Marie Duncan, this Venus is diva. Not to be outshined by the beauty of a young mortal, it was Venus, in a fit of jealousy, who sent Cupid to seek Psyche and cause her to fall in love with a Cyclops. Instead, Cupid, played with great boyish charm by Barrett Foa, falls in love, and, in the disguise of invisibility, courts the beautiful young princess. Played by Deborah Lew with vulnerability that belies inner strength, this Psyche is quite the songstress as well. Finally, there is the versatile Logan Lipton as Cupid’s sidekick, Mercury. All together, this cast is a formidable quartet of talent.

As written, CUPID AND PSYCHE is extremely self-aware and most modern in presentation. The myth remains more or less the same, but the language, attitude and style is very now. Most importantly, the music is cute and catchy, and the four actors are deliciously attractive in their parts. They play to the crowd, and play well off each other, never losing sight that, though based on ancient myth, the story is timeless and timely. As with any work, there are aspects here and there, like a few too many direct comments to the audience, that one could go without, but these were minor details.

I give hearty recommendation for CUPID AND PSYCHE, a most pleasant and family-friendly show. It is good escapist entertainment.

- Kessa De Santis -