I finally saw it and first things first: it was one of the funnest theater experiences I've ever had! THIS is what a musical should be like! I left the theater with a smile that lasted even next day.
Now I can argue little details, but the whole experience was great and I'm hoping to see it again soon.
I have to say I don't agree with those who said Radcliffe doesn't add to the character, he plays it real (not like a cartoon, which personally is what I've always disliked about the movie), and he is utterly charming! That's adding to the role. And since he is younger than the actors who previously played the role I think it's the perfect approach.
It's so clear that he is having fun, it's that energy what carries the whole show, and even helps the rest of the cast in some of "weak" moments.
About 'I believe in you', he just singing it in a different way, and to me it makes more sense than previews interpretations. Like Radcliffe said in an interview, if the character would believe in himself, there would be no point for him to sing that song, so he performs it in a way that he is telling it to himself, while in previous interpretations they did it like they already believed. That's one of the different things he brings to the role, and if you pay attention to his voice and face you'll see how the character is encouraging himself little by little.
I also really like how he starts singing it low and soft, and as Finch starts beliving in himself he sings louder and stronger.
I don't agree with those who compare it with 'Promises, Promises', although I see most haven't seen this one yet. H2S does bring a whole new feeling. The fact that most of the cast is younger makes it fresh and in my opinion more fun. And it even makes more sense, because since they are younger it's more realistic they would have so much new ambitions.
But I think it's Radcliffe's energy and Ashford's choreographies that make the big difference between what it is a very enjoyable show and what was easyly forgettable.
I'm a little disappointed with some of the cast though, like Larroquete. I can see why he was cast, the man is funny, but I think he could do so much more with the character, and so could others.
With the exception of Hemingway who is lovely and perfect for the role. Radcliffe and her have good chemistry which was to be honest a surprise.
Ashford's choreogaphy is probably his best yet, and one of the things I most enjoyed! And sorry but I have to admit I'm still surprised Radcliffe dances so well, I just wouldn't have imagined it.
We were talking about the audience before, yes there are many teens at the stage door (people of all ages actually), but most people in the audience were over 20.
And I don't think it's good to generalize, just because someone is young it doesn't mean they are all going to be annoying. There are plenty of annoying adults.
For the comments I read after the first previews, teens were not the only ones asking Rickman for an autograph.
It's getting a little repetitive, people trying to undermine Radcliffe's work saying the audience will all be teens, or calling him Potter... from my point of view the childish thing is to do THAT kind of thing.
I guess I tend to defend the younger audience because I think it's something good they start seeing some musicals or plays. Much better than what most of them usually see and listen to... For people who love musicals it seems kind of hypocritical to criticize it.
Anyway, and even if it didn't feel like it, it was still a preview, so I'm sure it'll even further improve.
Updated On: 3/8/11 at 06:19 PM
