BWW Reviews: Fortin Is a Powerhouse in THREE PENNY OPERA

Fan of her, now more than ever.

The Brecht-Weill musical directed by Brigitte HAENTJENS just finished its run at USINE C in Montreal, and it took a whole new meaning.

We can recognize HAENTJENS’ signature movements and direction; certains actors go through with it, others fall through. On that note, the acting levels are quite questionable; only a few pillars. RICARD offers an interesting acting performance, but you can’t escape his Loco Locass singing and dancing. Celine BONNIER and Maxime GAUDETTE offer simple and precise performances. Special mention to BONNIER who is magnificent during her solo with her fragile voice and vulnerability, in front of her red curtain. Kathleen FORTIN is, as usual, a powerhouse. She leads and owns the stage and her performance is remarkable. 

The set design is beautiful and simple, but under utilized. The adaptation, and transposition to 1939 Montreal, is excellent. This proposition of the THREE PENNY OPERA is sincerely captivating, but was clearly treated as a play, and not a musical. Which is not a flaw, just an interesting choice.

You’ll be sorry you missed it in Montreal, but still have a chance to catch it in Ottawa at the National Arts Centre. Feb. 28 - March 3

For more information call 1-888-991-2787 or visit www.nac-cna.ca.