Syncopation

A captivating romance by Allan Knee that will sweep you off your feet.

''Why walk through life when you can dance?'' asks Henry Ribelow in Merrimack Repertory Theatre's new production of ''Syncopation.'' Award-winning playwright Allen Snee's spirited play with music and dance follows two blue-collar immigrants, Henry and Anna (Adam Pelty and Stacey Harris, below), who chase the American dream through the world of ballroom dance. Set in 1991, it casts the couple in the footsteps of Vernon and Irene Castle. As they risk everything to dance, the intimate steps and captivating music draw the two into an improbable chance at fame and true love.

KAREN CAMPBELL