Dear Friend: I must tell you about a wonderful romantic musical I just saw. The Peninsula Association of Performing Artists’ (PAPA) new production of “She Loves Me” opened July 7 at the historic Fort Columbia Theater. I was not familiar with the show, but that turned out not to matter at all. Everything about the production was charming, stylish and very, very entertaining.

Anyone who does know the show will recognize why I used “Dear Friend” in my introduction. In a “boy meets girl” with a twist, the star-crossed lovers don’t even know each other’s names, only communicating through letters filled with their deepest hopes and dreams.

Set in a perfume shop in the 1930s, the show touches on all the confusing aspects of the human condition of romantic love. You’re sure to recognize yourself and your loved one in the universal themes. Take your sweetie for a date night. You’ll be glad you did.

Mark Scarborough

Seaview, Washington