i saw the original in TX and then the revival production, both very good. It's much closer to musical theatre than opera, and i think it might be a bit more accessible if cast with true musical theatre voices. The supporting adult cast of the first version here were partially from the HGO Opera studio, and the ones who could sing in musical theatre style were much more effective than the more legit-sounding voices. The children's chorus in both productions were terrific in sound and stage presence, as the concertmaster there does a wonderful job.
As for the visuals, it's interesting to note that the production was one of the last scenic designs of Maria Bjornson (PHANTOM OF THE OPERA) before her untimely passing. It's beautifully done, and as true to a source of line-drawings as a scenic design might hope to be.
Will: They don't give out awards for helping people be gay... unless you count the Tonys.
"I guarantee that we'll have tough
times. I guarantee that at some point
one or both of us will want to get out.
But I also guarantee that if I don't
ask you to be mine, I'll regret it for
the rest of my life..."