BIG RIVER — Page 2

I'm with Cookie.

NOT a great show. Actually, a little tedious and a bit of a letdown. HOWEVER, the Deaf West production was glorious. Shows what cracks can be spackled over with imagination, heart and talent.

And as for its Tony wins in '85, the competition wasn't what I'd call fierce. Best musical nominees were:

Big River
Grind
Harrigan & Hart
Quilters

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Hey there! I'm a lurker on the board, but I've noticed that Big River is coming to Tampa next year and I'm considering whether or not to buy tickets for it. Honestly, I don't know too much about the show. I know that it's about Huck Finn, but I'm not sure about much else. I haven't heard the music or a real plot review or anything. Can anybody point me in the direction of where to look, or tell me what they thought about the production and why? (good, bad, etc.) It would be very much appreciated. Thanks!

Baine, obviously, I'm too biased to say much about the show, and I acknowledge that there is a limitation in the plot and score, still, current Deaf West production shouldn't be missed (especially Broadway cast Tyrone Giordano and Michael McElroy are going to your town). I honestly can say it was one of the most wonderful theatrical experiences in my entire life.

It's a shameless plug but my fan site has loads of information about Deaf West production, along with cast interview, gallery, and links to Theatre Wing panel discussion video clip which you get great insights about the production, so please check it out. Feel free to send me an e-mail too, I'll answer any questions as much as possible.
Light To Shine unofficial fan site for Big River

I saw the Deaf West Theatre production of "Big River" a few days ago on its last day in Boston. It was definitely one of the most beautiful pieces of theatre I have ever seen. The incorporation of ASL was pure visual poetry, a ballet of the hands and soul. I was moved to tears, especially during the reprise of "Waitin' for the Light to Shine." All the performers were truly inspirational to watch. Tyrone Giordano was especially passionate, and Michael McElroy has one of the most beautiful voices I've heard. The entire production was so well done, I honestly cannot imagine the show without the bilingual aspect. I'm glad I got to see the show on tour, I had missed it earlier on Broadway. And I'm glad the cast was awarded with a special Tony Honor, but I wish the production had won something at the Tonys. I totally would have voted for this for Best Revival of a Musical over "Assassins," which, although brilliant, doesn't match up in terms of heart.

~Steven

Okay, thanks everyone! ^_^ I think I'll probably see it. I am going to be so musicaled-out that week--if that's possible! LOL! I'll be home in Philly that weekend and catching the tour of Peter Pan, then going into the City to catch Dirty Rotten Scoundrels only to come back to school for Big River. I must be crazy. *laughs*

It sounds really interesting, though, and I've always liked Huck Finn despite all the hoopla around it.

Thanks all!

Really want to see the revival version of Big River. It is coming to Wilmington, Deleware in early 2005, which is about 4 hours away from me. I'd be willing to make the drive if I thought it was going to be worth it -- what do you guys think?

Hi I returned from my quick trip to Cleveland. I had a blast.
I saw both Ty and Garrett's Huck (Ty has a sprained ankle, poor thing) and met the cast and crew and it was a great trip.

I was too busy chatting with the cast, I didn't take many photo but I uploaded what I took on the web page. Enjoy!

Lite2Shine
Light To Shine unofficial fan site for Big River

How nice of you! Thanks :)

Yes, I've talked to a couple of the cast members to do the Q&A sessions, so more new interviews will be coming. And when the tour comes to my town next year, I might bring a personal photographer with me so that I will have loads of photos (lol)

lite2shine

Light To Shine unofficial fan site for Big River

Demoiselle~ if you are who I remember... I sent you a private message.

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For those who were wondering about Adam Monley, I saw him go on in Boston and he was absolutely incredible. A nearly flawless performance, which was even more impressive considering it was his first time on in the role. I honestly think the people at Deaf West are crazy if they don't offer him the role. His voice was clear and beautiful, there were distinct differences between his Twain and his Huck, and he complimented Tyrone Giordano's gorgeous facial expressions perfectly. I hope that many others get to experience his performance too. As for the production itself, it was one of the most moving theatrical experiences I've ever had. Highly, HIGHLY recommended.

I haven't had a chance to see Adam as MT yet but I'm sure I'll have plenty of chances when/if they offer him the replacement of Dan in the tour. (disclaimer: I know nothing about the replacements or D.C. cast info... yet

Still I love Dan's performance so much it's hard to be impartial :)

Light To Shine: Big River Fan Site

Updated On: 1/6/05 at 04:00 PM

I hope the cast and crew of Big River have a happy holiday break!

LOVE IT LOVE IT LOVE IT LOVE IT