January 7, 2009 > Theater Review: The Musical with Heart: Damn Yankees Theater Review: The Musical with Heart: Damn Yankees Middle-aged baseball fanatic Joe Boyd (Don Naylor) trades his soul to the Devil, the charming but devious Mr. Applegate (played by Chris Ciabattoni), for a chance to lead his favorite team to victory in the pennant race against the New York Yankees. As young baseball sensation Joe Hardy (Josh Milbourne), he transforms the hapless Washington Senators into a winning team only to realize the true worth of the life and wife (Brianna Watson) he left behind. With the help of a handy escape clause and a guilt-ridden temptress named Lola (Lisa Ottersteter), Joe outsmarts Applegate, returns to his former self and shepherds the Senators to the World Series. Light, fast-paced and devilishly clever, "Damn Yankees" is a home- run hit whose all-American subject matter and irreverent sense of humor have brought many a sports fan and theatre buff together. The catchy score and rousing production numbers will have you tapping your toes and humming along to some popular favorites like "Heart" and "Whatever Lola Wants." Director David Sikula promises a night of delightful entertainment for the whole family. Damn Yankees 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday: January 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24 2:30 p.m. Sunday: January 11, 18, Newark-Memorial High School Theatre 39375 Cedar Blvd., Newark (510) 791-0287 www.stage1theatre.org Adults advanced/senior: $24; $22 at door Advanced group of 12 or more: $18 High School and younger: $12