I saw a production here a few years ago, that they even brought Adam Guettel to town to promote. I had listened to the cast recording plenty amd enjoyed it, but as a show it sort of falls flat.
The original Off-way production had a lot going for it. Beautiful score, star-making debut by Benjamin Walker, gorgeous musicianship by the pit band. But it felt like a story that painted itself literally into a corner it could never find its way out of. The progress of Act II went from bleak to bleaker to bleakest, despite the fact that it ends with "How Glory Goes" which is indeed musical theater heaven. I imagine it would be a very tough sell to today's audiences.
Someone in a Tree2 said: "The original Off-way production had a lot going for it. Beautiful score, star-making debut by Benjamin Walker, gorgeous musicianship by the pit band..."
The original off-Broadway production was in 1996, right? Wasn't Benjamin Walker a teenager then or am I thinking of someone else?
Every season has a musical or two that seems like a tough sell. Fun Home anyone? I think Floyd Collins can find a decent audience for a successful short run, particularly if it pulls a name for the lead and/or is done by a nonprofit house.
"The original off-Broadway production was in 1996, right? Wasn't Benjamin Walker a teenager then or am I thinking of someone else?"
Boy, do I apologize for that slip. Just checked my cd and it was Christopher Innvar who played Floyd stunningly. (Also surprised to discover Floyd's brother was played by Jason Danieley and Brian D'Arcy James was in the ensemble.) Funny the tricks your mind plays once you cross 60.
joined:3/24/17
joined:
3/24/17
Posted: 12/8/19 at 2:27pm