How many of us would give the world to be able to see a lost loved one again, even for just one hour? Hands down, it would be everyone.

A new production at the Snapple Theater Center, Hereafter Musical, created by Vice President of CBS Late Night, Vinnie Favale and actress, singer, songwriter, and instrumentalist, Frankie Keane, is a unique gift to audiences looking for comfort and peace in their present lives.

Hereafter Musical is centered around three women: Mary (played by Carolyn Mignini); Debbie (played by Courtney Capek); and Christina (played by Eileen Faxas) each desperate to connect with a loved one who has passed on. They gather at the home of well-known medium, Jason Richards (played by Paul Blankenship), for a group reading and each share their story. Keane also stars in the show as Anita, a mysterious, glamorous, and witty woman with a mission and purpose central to the group that reveals itself as the show progresses.

The spirits that the woman wish to make contact with -- Mary's son, Eddie (played by Pierce Cravens); Christina's daughter, Ana (played by Michelle Cabinian); and Debbie's mother, Sypie (played by Deborah Tranelli) -- also have a tough journey if they decide to make contact, because if they do so, that will be it and they will permanently enter the hereafter. All three are troubled by this, but want to make the choice best for their surviving family member.  Christina’s relationship with daughter, Ana, stands out in particular: it is multi-layered, portraying at once a strong bond and a deep separation. Seeing Christina do her best to survive after her daughter’s death is heart-breaking, as she attempts to find answers.

The score makes for a beautiful exposition, further amplifying the emotions of each personal story unfolding on stage. Much of the music is soulful and soothing, with lyrics in songs such as ““Take My Life,” and “Rest in Peace” providing a closer look into the hearts and minds of the spirits, who still experience feelings of pain and uneasiness that they want to sort out. Others, like ”Nineteen”, have more of an upbeat, rock n’ roll sound. Another delight was the presence of the background dancers, coming in at the appropriate times with soft and graceful movements that blended nicely with the music.

The power of connection is what audiences will take away, as Hereafter Musical not only brings the cast together, but everyone in the audience as well. With wit, honesty, and compassion, Hereafter brings a warm light to the darkest part of life.

Hereafter Musical opens on Saturday, October 25th at the Snapple Theater Center. For more information and tickets visit: https://hereaftermusical.com/