Does anyone plan to see Storyville at the York?
Does anyone plan to see Storyville at the York?
#1Does anyone plan to see Storyville at the York?
Posted: 7/15/13 at 3:00pmPreviews begin tonight, and it seems like a good topic for a musical, the birth of jazz. Anyone plan on going?
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Joined: 12/31/69
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Broadway Legend Joined: 6/5/09
#2Does anyone plan to see Storyville at the York?
Posted: 8/1/13 at 10:59am
I enjoyed the score, tuneful, bright, and atmospheric, played by a great band. Nice costumes, good choreography, a fine cast. The book was serviceable, but needed to tie up some loose ends.
All in all, an entertaining evening.
#3Does anyone plan to see Storyville at the York?
Posted: 8/1/13 at 11:38am^^^ Good to know! Thanks for posting. I'm seeing it next week.
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Joined: 12/31/69
#5Does anyone plan to see Storyville at the York?
Posted: 8/9/13 at 11:23am
I saw Storyville at the York last night and really enjoyed it, mainly for the marvelous performances from both experienced actors and super talented newcomers. Overall, I would say that the execution is somewhat better than the material, but Storyville is certainly worth seeing, especially if you have an interest in early jazz or in the period in general (the story takes place in 1917, in New Orleans). Plus, it's the New York City premiere, in case that matters to you.
The original score is fine, perhaps not overly imaginative but certainly pleasant to listen to, and there's lots of it (24 songs). The costumes are wonderful, and the hard-working band is amazingly good. It's such a joy to hear real horns, reeds and strings, especially in a smaller venue. And whoever did the orchestrations is a genius. A joy to hear. I enjoyed the choreography too. The pacing is great, with always something happening to pique your interest, and the time goes by quickly.
I think the main problem I had with the music is that the story is about the early years of jazz, but the score doesn't incorporate any of the actual songs of the era. It would be like somebody today writing the story of Liverpool in the 60s and composing his or her own tunes. It would be hard to top the music of the British Invasion! (Although the Rutles did a fine job evoking the era.)
The show is playing until August 17, in case you want to take it in, which I recommend. Great job, James Morgan and company!
Updated On: 8/9/13 at 11:23 AM
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