Lakewood Theatre Co.
September 16, 2006; closes October 29, 2006
Immediately relevant, but frustratingly erratic source material with more plots than a mini-series and few songs that felt whole, far less memorable. Plane direction; shadowy lighting; gawky scenery. Even so, this production deservedly received standing ovation due to Alan D. Lytle’s impeccable musical direction of first-class orchestra and stellar cast.
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10 comments:
I thought it rocked. . . opening weekend seemed to show things still coming together technically, but an amazing cast giving herculean effort. outstanding vocalists, top to bottom. staging & set pieces were a bit jumbled at times - tech stuff could be tighter - i know it's cliche to say the band was too loud, but it's a small house and even strong vocalists get swallowed up. despite some rough edges that i'm sure will be smoothed quickly, i was totally engaged and loved the show. everyone onstage clearly cares about show & story, so kudos!
Wow! Is the best superlative I can think of. The cast was truly amazing!! From Ragtime opening to Coalhouse's soaring anthem in the end, I got chills. The set was interesting to say the least. Lighting and sound could be better, but adequate nonetheless. Orchestra sounded wonderful. This show is a definite must see!
Quite a cast and achieving what they did was no small feat.
David Hughes is FIERCE as Coalhouse!
i liked the set design in concept but the screens that spelled "ragtime" were almost distracting -- not in how they were used (to define and redefine the space) but in how they were painted. I think it would have been more effective and less distracting if they were either plain or some faux finish or something and not so broadly spattered. Spattering is a classic technique but can be difficult in such a small house like Lakewood.
I saw it last night. If you haven't seen it, please do. The acting and singing are amazing! They have some favorite local actors and some out of town actors that simply blow your socks off. The music is beautiful and beautifully sung. Leif Norby and Pam Mahon are electrifying. William Hughes and Renee Cleland break your hearts, and the tears. Well just go see it.
I have to say Leif Norby is the most consistently good actor in Portland right now. I've never seen a less than stellar performance from this man.
I have to say, I think this is one of the best -- if not the best-- locally-cast musicals I've ever seen. The cast was so phenomenal I can't even single anybody out-- they all rocked. Go see this show!! It's also probably the most politically provocative work Lakewood has done in a loooooooooong time!!
The Era of Ragtime has ended.
Leif Norby is the most amazing, aMAZing actor I have ever seen. This entire show was absolutely phenomenal!!! I have to follow that David Hughes guy--he made my jaw drop and my ears feel like they were in heaven. I have never seen such a consistent show--every single performer was perfect. I have no criticism. The father/daughter chemistry between Hayley Rousselle and Leif Norby was absolutely touching, not to mention heartwrenching. I will remember this show fondly till the day I die. Wish I could've been a part of it other than just the audience!
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