The Spitfire Grill
Book by James Valcq & Fred Alley
Music by James Valcq, Lyrics by Fred Alley

photos by Ed Krieger

The Laguna Playhouse, Laguna Beach, CA 

"Atmosphere is everything in a musical about small town life, and director Nick DeGruccio captures it throughout the Laguna Playhouse production Director DeGruccio is also choreographer, and he guides the cast fluidly around the stage so that their constant interaction has the pulsing flow of dance." - Variety

"The musical is making its first West Coast appearance at Laguna Playhouse in a superb staging by Nick DeGruccio.  ...there is something irresistible about this show." - Los Angeles Times

"In this compelling production directed and choreographed by Nick DeGruccio, vocal and dramatic strength entwine in a moving, memorable evening." - Coastline Pilot

"Alley’s songs are delivered with such earnest conviction by the truly exceptional cast that only the most hard-hearted critic would fail to be won over. Anchored by Cotton’s subtly moving lead performance and an absolutely outstanding turn by Huber, each member of the cast invests their character with authentic heartache and simple grace, making this the strongest ensemble performance I’ve seen all year."  - OC Weekly

"Much of the show's success is due to director Nick DeGruccio, who makes even highly melodramatic moments come to life." - LA Weekly

"This West Coast premiere is a polished production that's both lavish and humble...charming staging." - BackStage West