BRIGADOON in Pasadena
BRIGADOON in Pasadena
BRIGADOON in Pasadena#1
Posted: 5/21/26 at 2:26am
If you want to see an 80 year musical done to perfection with only a few book ‘improvements’ (and they are) get thee to the Pasadena Playhouse
BRIGADOON in Pasadena#2
Posted: 5/21/26 at 3:49am
I saw this past weekend, and I didn't think it was good. The set was pretty. The two leads were fantastic. It was great to hear the score.
However, tonally, the show didn't work for me. I don't know the original book line-by-line, Alexandra Silber's "updated" book was still clunky. The comedy landed like a perfunctory sitcom routine tightened by AI, but the drama didn't feel earned at all. Perhaps that flaw is more attributed to Spelman's direction. Actors were rushing to deliver the next line, and the weight of the dialogue didn't get to breathe. (Also, Tyne Daly was absolutely not ready, which didn't help.)
Max von Essen was the highlight for me. Betsy Morgan was fine. Happy Anderson as Jeff was two dimensional and sitcomy, and I think his scene at the bar at the end could've been better. Donna Vivino could've gone much further with her role.
Spelman also disappointed me with her choreography. Long dance breaks that dragged with no exciting buildup.
I may be a bit harsh with my opinion. But they really should've hired a director who can truly work on the book scenes, and hired Spelman solely as a choreographer to let her do her thing.
That being said, this production was much better than the nasty La Cage production that Pasadena Playhouse put on.
Broadway Legend Joined: 2/27/06
BRIGADOON in Pasadena#3
Posted: 5/21/26 at 6:32am
That being said, this production was much better than the nasty La Cage production that Pasadena Playhouse put on.
Hey, now. THAT production of LA CAGE was directed by Tony Award winning director of OH, MARY! and the current Broadway revival of THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW: Sam Pinkelton! 😛
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