I Love You Because
By Joshua Salzman and Ryan Cunningham
Directed by Michael McKelvey
June 9-26, 2011
Featuring Andrew Cannata, Sarah Marie Curry, Amy Downing, Stephen Jack, Tyler Jones and Haley Smith
Set in New York City, this sweet and quirky romantic comedy follows Austin Bennet, a young greeting card writer, whose life is turned upside down when he finds his girlfriend with another man. Forced back out into the treacherous urban dating scene, Austin meets Marcy, whose spontaneity is matched only by her ability to drive him insane. I Love You Because explores the bewildering rules and nuances of dating and reminds us that true romance is learning how to love someone, not in spite of their differences, but because of them.
In the news
"This production is solid on all fronts. An all-around stellar cast makes it unflinchingly entertaining. I Love You Because is worth seeing for the songs alone. [Yet] there are also moments of sincere beauty."
-Austin American-Statesman
"The actors don't wear microphones, so you hear pure unamplified human sound. It is a joyous thing, and what wonderful voices to hear. The songs are catchy and the numbers are both laugh-hard funny and often touching. You'll love it!"
-Austin Chronicle
"Pure enchantment. Penfold takes no prisoners, holds nothing back. You WILL want to see it again... And again... And again... It's that good!"
-Now Playing Austin
"A MUST SEE. Get your ticket while you still can. Loved it, loved it, loved it."
-Now Playing Austin
Awards and honors
B. Iden Payne Award winner, Outstanding Lead Actor, Andrew Cannata
B. Iden Payne Award winner, Outstanding Lead Actress, Haley Smith
B. Iden Payne Award nomination, Outstanding Production
B. Iden Payne Award nomination, Outstanding Direction, Michael McKelvey
B. Iden Payne Award nomination, Outstanding Featured Actress, Amy Downing
B. Iden Payne Award nomination, Outstanding Music Direction, Michael McKelvey
Austin Chronicle's Top 10 Theatrical Wonders of 2011
Austin Critics Table Award nomination, Musical Production
Austin Critics Table Award nomination, Acting in a Lead Role, Andrew Cannata
Austin Critics Table Award nomination, Ensemble Performance