Review: ‘My Spirits Soar’ at The Group Repertory Theatre

From left: Hayley O’Brien, Oceane Rose Laurent, Sean Michael Williams, BP Mendoza, and Sarah Bruce in The Group Rep's "My Spirits Soar" (Photo by Caitlin Mae Smith)

Inspired by Oscar Wilde’s short story “The Canterville Ghost,” with its book by Doug Haverty, “My Spirits Soar” is a haunting and heartfelt musical that follows Virginia Otis (Abigail Stewart), a young American girl who wins the opportunity to study abroad in England. When she arrives, she finds herself lodging in a haunted castle where she meets the ghost of Sir Simon (Marc Antonio Pritchett), whose tragic past lingers within the walls. Determined to help him find peace, Virginia sets out to solve the mystery that has kept his spirit trapped for almost a century. The show blends supernatural elements with themes of courage, compassion and enduring love.

The performances are consistently engaging. Stewart carries the story with confidence, delivering both strong vocals and emotional sincerity. Her chemistry with Casey Alcoser as Trevor, the Duke, feels genuine and helps ground the play’s more fantastical moments.

From left: Casey Alcoser and Abigail Stewart in The Group Rep's "My Spirits Soar" (Photo by Caitlin Mae Smith)

Pritchett, standing in for Kevin Spirtas, gives a commanding performance as Sir Simon, bringing both humor and gravitas to the role. Catherine McClenahan and Rob Schaumann, as Mr. and Mrs. Umney, offer delightful comic relief and showcase great physical timing even in silent exchanges. And Savannah Mortenson as Lucinda Lillywhite is hauntingly memorable and delivers a vocally chilling performance.

Director Kathleen R. Delaney’s vision and choreography give the production a clear rhythm and identity. While Act I moves at a slower pace, the energy lifts noticeably after intermission, carrying the story to an emotionally satisfying conclusion. The use of the entire stage, with entrances and exits from both sides of the theatre, keeps the pacing dynamic and the audience visually engaged. Transitional choreography between scenes is a particularly creative touch that keeps the show flowing smoothly.

From left: BP Mendoza, Oceana Rose Laurent, and Hayley O’Brien in The Group Rep's "My Spirits Soar" (Photo by Caitlin Mae Smith)

Delaney and Haverty’s set design is minimal yet elegant, anchored by a regal golden proscenium and gold-painted steps framed against the backdrop of a spiral staircase. The illuminated stage columns and rich color palette enhance the ethereal tone. Lighting designer Ellen Monocroussos brings the supernatural to life through vivid hues of orange, green, blue and purple, heightening the sense of magic and mystery. And Shon LeBlanc’s costumes complement each character perfectly, stylish, functional, and filled with personality.

Musically, the production excels with Thomas Griep at the helm. With music by Adryan Russ, lyrics by Russ and Haverty, and orchestrations by Ned Paul Ginsburg, the score feels both fresh and familiar. The live four-piece band featuring cello, flute, clarinet, percussion and xylophone adds warmth and texture. Under Griep's musical direction, transitions are seamless, and the energy never falters. Nick Foran’s sound design ensures each note and lyric lands crisply.

From left: Abigail Stewart and Marc Antonio Pritchett in The Group Rep's "My Spirits Soar" (Photo by Doug Engalla)

At its core, “My Spirits Soar” celebrates courage, particularly the courage to face fear, love and the unknown. Virginia’s fearlessness, from conversing with ghosts to confronting her own emotions, underscores the show’s message that true growth begins where fear ends. The audience at a recent performance responded with enthusiasm, applauding after each number and laughing in all the right moments.

Despite a slightly slow first act, “My Spirits Soar” ultimately delivers an enchanting and emotionally resonant experience. With its heartfelt performances, inventive design and original music, this production soars just as high as its title suggests and is well worth catching before it closes.

“My Spirits Soar” continues through Nov. 2 at The Group Rep Theatre, 10900 Burbank Blvd., North Hollywood, with shows Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. For tickets and information, call the theatre at 818-763-5990 or visit TheGroupRep.com.