BWW Reviews: BEYOND THE BARRICADE is Electrifying Entertainment

The ensemble of the smash-hit musical LES MISERABLES has got to be one of the hardest working ensembles on Broadway. Each playing more characters than can be counted on your two hands, the limited space backstage for quick changes, and the constant rushing on and off the stage has got to make for one grueling (and incredibly rewarding) day at the office. Last night this talented group impressed audiences by casting the wigs, dirt, and grime aside and singing the music that makes them tick at 54 BELOW.

The two Beyond the Barricade cabaret concerts served as fundraisers to benefit Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. For the 7:00 p.m. show, the zealously receptive crowd was one of the nosiest and most appreciative audiences I have ever experienced at 54 BELOW. The applause was thunderous, and they truly were plugged in for each of the rousing performances.

The show kicked off with a stellar rendition of "Opening Sequence: The New World" (Jason Robert Brown). Melissa Mitchell's shimmering soprano, Natalie Charle Ellis' powerful alto, Arbender J. Robinson's radiant tenor, and Andrew Kober's charismatic baritone served as the perfect opening to an evening of amazing vocals. A bluesy rendition of "I'm a Woman" (Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller) was sung with vibrant diva-tude and brassy belts by Erin Clemons, Brittney Johnson, Ellis, and Mitchell. This electrifying performance earned deafening cheers and sent the audience into frenzied applause.

The show progressed with different solo and group numbers for the rest of the concert. Stands out included the adorable showmanship displayed by Gaten Matarazzo and Joshua Colley on "All For the Best" (Stephen Schwartz), the rich darkness of John Rapson's baritone instrument on "Who I'd Be" (Jeanine Tesori/David Lindsay-Abaire), Robinson's soft and sweet rendition of "Mona Lisa" (Jay Livingston, Ray Evans), Kyle Scatliffe's phenomenal and gorgeous version of "Wondering" (Jason Robert Brown), Terance Cedric Reddick soulful and smooth take on "I Never Dreamed You'd Leave in Summer" (Stevie Wonder, Syreeta Wright), and Caissie Levy's melodious performance of "Little Ocean" (Eric Hutchinson).

Whether you are a fan of the cast of LES MISERABLES or simply enjoy good singing, Beyond the Barricade had more than enough razzle dazzle to charm and entertain. The cast was all in great spirits as was the audience. The tangible energy and exciting performances truly ensured everyone left the room with a smile on their face and wonderful memories lodged in their minds.

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