Big River tour

I got a chance to see the touring company of Big River last week and thought the show was just phenomenal. Most of the Broadway cast from last year's Roundabout mounting of this show are in this production. I saw Big River years ago, but Jeff Calhoun's re-imagining of this show with hearing and non-hearing actors is truly inspired. The stage is not elaborate - it just depicts giant books that the audience is walked through as the Mark Twain's story of Huckleberry Finn unfolds. Deaf actor Tyrone Giordano did a terrific job in reprising his 2003 Drama Desk award nominated role as Huckleberry Finn and Daniel Jenkins was wonderful speaking and singing the part of Huck. Tony and Drama Desk nominated actor Michael McElroy, founder and musical director of Broadway Inspirational Voices, showed his glorious baritone as Jim. Melissa Van Der Schyff's voice evoked a soaring Dolly Parton and Gwen Stewart, who plays the slave Alice, has a heartfelt voice that is the genuine article. "Muddy Water" is a terrific rousing song, but my heart soared when in act 2, the entire cast - both hearing as well as the non-hearing actors - fell silent in the middle of "Waiting For the Light to Shine" and signed the chorus of the song. Big River is a joyous experience and if this tour comes to your town, it would be a great investment of your time and dollar.

I saw the tour last week and I echo everything you said. This production is not to be missed.

*Planning a road trip to Columbus, Ohio in February as we speak!*

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http://www.deafwest.org/productions/touring.html#tourdates

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I wonder how the tour will do in Japan. Right now they're on hiatus and will open in Japan in late September.

Hoping to see it again in Sacramento!
http://www.livejournal.com/community/bigriverrevival

GO SEE THIS IF YOU CAN!! IT'S BRILLIANT!!

Although I understand why they weren't allowed to perform at the Tonys, TV and Radio City audiences missed something truly amazing that night.

I hope that would've done WAITING FOR THE LIGHT --just for that dramatic middle section.

And if ASSASSINS wasn't around this season, I certainly hope that it would've been in high consideration as Best Revival.