CURTAINS Review: 3/11/07

[millie_dillmount]

Posted: 3/15/07 at 1:27am

I wouldn't be surprised if Curtains the Musical snatches the Tony for Best Musical at this year's awards. I happened to catch the 3 pm performance of Curtains on Sunday, March 11th and had center orchestra seats. Curtains takes place at the Colonial Theatre (which is an actual theater in Boston), and the show revolves around the mysterious death of the lead actress of a Western musical version of Robin Hood, a near flopping show that is already struggling for a Broadway transfer.

Clearly, the strongest aspect of the show is the stellar cast. What a great combination of people the casting directors have chosen for the principal roles. The cast was a big influence on my reason to see the show. There were no understudies when I saw it this past Sunday. David Hyde Pierce was a hoot as Lieutenant Frank Cioffi. I don't really watch Frasier, but judging by the episodes I have seen, he doesn't look like the singing/acting type person. Don't let that fool you - this guy has talent. Not to mention, he's classically trained in piano, though we don't get to see that in the show. Go see it with him if you get the chance.

Debra Monk as Carmen Bernstein was another strong point of the show. She delivers a wonderful performance. Great voice, great acting...see it with her too. Karen Ziemba was pheonomenal as Georgia Hendricks. She is a really talented dancer and especially enjoyed watching "Thataway." Jason Danieley was Aaron Fox, the music arranger longing to win back Georgia, the other half of the music-lyric duo of the Robin Hood show. He has one major number, "I Miss the Music," which he sings beautifully. Jill Paice was sweet as Niki Harris. The audience just fell in love with her character. Edward Hibbert, as the director Christopher Belling, was hilarious. I enjoyed Megan Sikora's comedic timing as Bambi Bernet. I've seen her in various ensemble roles, so it is nice to see her in a featured role. She's got talent and needs to let it shine. The rest of the principal cast - Noah Racey (Bobby Pepper), John Bolton (Daryl Grady), Michael X. Martin (Johnny Harmon), and Michael McCormick (Oscar Shapiro) were all great. I have to add that I also enjoyed watching Ernie Sabella (Oscar Bernstein) on stage after seeing him in one of my favorite shows, Saved By the Bell.

The score, in my opinion, didn't sound like the usual Kander and Ebb score. I wasn't particularly fond of the score, though some numbers stood out: "Show People," "I Miss the Music," "Thataway!," "He Did It," "Kansasland," and "A Tough Act to Follow." If Curtains performs at the Tonys, they will most likely perform "Show People."

I have a feeling that once this show opens, gets more exposure, and if it wins big at the Tonys, it'll be a big hit. Go see it before it becomes difficult to get tickets.

[courtnyj]

Posted: 3/15/07 at 1:31am

Thanks for your review millie! I am just pleased as punch to see so many people embracing the show!

Updated On: 3/15/07 at 01:31 AM

[Dre2387]

Posted: 3/15/07 at 1:46am

I saw it today at 2pm and I must say, i loved it! Though, wasn;t crazy about DPH's boston accent. he had it, then ost it, then got it back. It was weird. and the 2nd number did not impress me at all. can;t remember what is was called. Debra Monk is a GREAT singer, and so is Jason Danieley. brilliant! and I was happy the conductor even played a little part. it was cute!

Next big hit, right here!

[millie_dillmount]

Posted: 3/15/07 at 1:47am

Oh, yes, I forgot to add, I loved how they incorporated the conductor in the show...very creative!