Stray observations about the Iveys

A few morning-after thoughts about the Ivey Awards Monday at the State Theatre:

Despite the usual quibbles about who got left off, let it be said that this year's list of honorees was very satisfying. These were really good guys, who have been working in this community for a long time (except for David Bolger, the choreographer for "H.M.S Pinafore," who I am sure is a great guy but is based in Dublin).

Dennis Spears with Greta Oglesby on the red carpet Monday. (Photo by Renee Jones Schneider, Star Tribune)

Craig Johnson, who has been at this for 30 years, has an uncanny director's eye. Every piece is always just right with his productions.

Peter Christian Hansen opened "Burn This" at Gremlin last December in a snowstorm and the next weekend was even worse; thank goodness enough people plowed through the snow and got to see a really fine actor at work.

How much do we need to say about Dennis Spears? Only this: people have heard of him for decades because of his voice and charisma; they are beginning to appreciate him as a really fine actor. He was honored for knocking Nat King Cole out of the park, but I will also remember him this past year for a quietly powerful performance in Ten Thousand Things' "Life's a Dream."

Gary Rue is a veteran whose work has helped thousands of young people get into theater. As a composer and musical director, Rue is a prickly perfectionist who honestly and deeply cares about quality. Good for him.

And youth was served. How charming was it to see a recognition for Ben Bakken, a generous and buoyant spirit who is loved by everyone he works with.

Speaking of youth, the crowd seemed rowdier, eager to stamp their feet, stand, shout and generally carry on for their favorites. It really livened up the old State.

The program, relying on musical numbers, moved much better than last year. Randy Reyes and Sarah Ochs were lovely with "Suddenly Seymour" from Mu's "Little Shop." The big opening production touched a lot of bases that needed recognition: "Hairspray" and "Annie" for example. And Live Action Set got a chance to show how accessible high art can be with a snippet from "The 7-Shot Symphony."

Where were they? I was surprised "The 39 Steps" from the Guthrie didn't get mentioned. Penumbra's "Ma Rainey," with Jevetta Steele, should have made the list, too. There are others, too, but those stood out.

Weren't Charles and Seth Numrich supposed to be the emcees last night? Then why did Princeton (Tom Reid) and Kate Monster (Bonni Allen) from "Avenue Q" keep showing up at the podium? Absolutely nothing against these two charmers but at what point did they become the hosts?