To commemorate the upcoming 100th anniversary of the maiden voyage and tragic sinking of the Titanic, La Comedia Dinner Theatre in Springboro, Ohio, presents a satisfying and respectful mounting of the Broadway musical Titanic.

This show, which won the Tony Award for Best New Musical in 1997, introduces the ship's crew as well as a wide array of passengers including stuffy millionaires, star-struck second class tourists, and poor immigrants wishing for a better life in America. The dreams of these individuals are brought to light, only to be shattered as they deal with their inevitable fate once the doomed boat strikes an iceberg.

The score by Maury Yeston contains a number of very strong choral and solo songs, with the music usually being stronger than the lyrics. The numbers in the first act are much better than those found in the second half of the show, and there are a few songs that fail to rise above mediocre. However, songs such as "Godspeed Titanic," "Barrett's Song," "Lady's Maid" and "The Proposal/The Night Was Alive" are both wonderfully melodic and theatrically dramatic.

Peter Stone's book does a good job of providing a wide look at the many individual stories of passengers and crew members, and smartly presents the human side of the disaster. However, by dispersing the focus among so many characters, the audience never gets to know any one person at a deep enough level to truly care about his/her fate. The fact that the outcome of the show is known at the outset also makes this a difficult story to tell and, therefore, not an overly compelling book for a musical.

Titanic is truly an ensemble show in every sense of the word. Almost every cast member has a moment to shine, and no true leads exist. The performers are strong singers outside of a few pitch issues with a couple of soloists, and they provide solid acting (with the exception of one female ensemble members who needs to tone down the overacting). The musical's best overall performances come from Brian Crowley (Harold Bride), Bethany Locklear (Kate McGowan) and Paul Sandberg (Thomas Andrews). Praiseworthy vocals are also supplied by Jim Schubin (Barrett) and Dustin Farris (Hartley). Especially noteworthy in the acting department are Dale W. Given (Capt. Smith), Colin Cranstoun (Bellboy/Yates), Cheryl Salzman (Alice Bean) and Ricky Pope (Etches).

Chris Beiser provides worthwhile direction and choreography for the show. The few dances are brisk and apt to the characters and situation. Mr. Beiser supplies fluid transitions, effective blocking, and a respectful tone in line with the tragic outcome of the story.

The daunting and large scenic design is by Joe Leonard, based on the 2002 La Comedia production by Matthew J. Evans. Effective lighting by Geoffrey D. Fishburn includes some nice wave and fire effects, and the handsome and period appropriate costumes are by A.T. Jones.

Titanic is a good, but not great musical. However, it's one worthy of staging and attending, especially as we remember the centennial of the disaster. The talented cast, solid direction, and accomplished set design make this La Comedia presentation an enjoyable one. Titanic continues through April 29, 2012. Tickets can be purchased by calling 1-800-677-9505 or visiting www.lacomedia.com.

Also see the current Cincinnati Area Theatre Schedule