Love Me Do

Experiencing a world premiere theatrical work is a rarity for audiences in Hampton Roads, but when Love, Inc., a fresh, romantic musical comedy, shacks up at TCC’s Roper Theater Feb. 5 through 22, admirers lusting for national-quality stage performance will be treated to a "first kiss."

Before Love, Inc. hits Off-Broadway in July, New York City-based Lavie Productions wanted to give the work a "lunch date" of sorts. They approached the highly reputable Virginia Arts Festival about presenting it in Norfolk. Norfolk agreed.

The selection of Norfolk isn’t as curious as it might seem. Stan Raiff, the show’s producer, lives in New York and has worked on many On and Off Broadway shows, including Buffalo Girl and Riverside Drive. As it turns out, Raiff handpicked Norfolk to premiere the production because he has close friends and family in Virginia and considers the area his second home.

Love, Inc. tells the story of Faith, a savvy business woman looking for love. She is unsure about entering the dating world, so she collaborates with friends to create a matchmaking company and business model—something she can relate to—in a comical effort to find Mr. Right. Faith is played by Newport News native Heather Parcells.

Playing the role of the handsomely charming Casey Janacek is Paulo Montalban, an acclaimed actor seen on television programs such as Mortal Kombat: Quest. He also played Cinderella’s prince opposite Brandy on ABC and was listed among People Magazine’s "50 Most Beautiful People."

Following one of the final Love, Inc. run-throughs, Montalban was keen to share the excitement of the production.

"I’ve not had the opportunity to work on a brand new musical before," he said. "It’s totally different in terms of exploring things and having some input into how you want the character to turn out."

Montalban said he doesn’t feel the pressure of premiering the work. He and the cast see it as a "blank canvas" full of possibilities.

"We’re really interested to see how it is received," he said. "I think people will be able to relate to the story and find it entertaining."

Midsize markets like Norfolk are not traditionally places you’d expect to experience a world premiere. Stage productions generally debut in New York City and London. Giving this virgin performance of Love, Inc in Hampton Roads is something Montalbal is quite comfortable with.