#1
Posted: 4/3/06 at 11:10pm
There are several good moments in 'Lestat'. I shall itemize:
- Drew Sarich's performance.
- Allison Fischer's performance.
- Sail Me Away, I Want More.
- Carolee Carmello and Hugh Panaro while singing.
- The scenic, lighting, and projection design.
That being said, I think the show's primary fault is a distinct imbalance. The first act is essentially dark and brooding, with a melodrama that leaves the audience not knowing whether to laugh or stifle it. The second act (which bears a distinct resemblance to an "undead" Huck Finn in the first 15 minutes or so.) has more moments that are obviously played for humor (which isn't always a bad thing), as well as the finer end of the performances.
The whole Gabrielle/Lestat mother/would-be-lover relationship is simply too over the top for a show that is going to try to fill the Palace at $111 a seat.
If the show could find a balance between wit and woe, it might survive based on several fine performances and the Elton John factor. I don't purport to be a director, but I think that Mr. Roth would do well to listen to the audience's reactions (where they are unexpected and/or inappropriate) and fine tune rather quickly. One should also take note of the moments when the audience shifts in their seats, checks their programs, or watches en masse. That is probably a good sign that something should go. There are several moments where there is a line or two beyond where the scene should have ended.
I do believe however, that there is NO saving Taupin's lyrics.
I don't regret seeing the show. Overall, it was an amusing night at the theatre. I also acknowledge that it is a work in progress and can improve significantly. The reason I am breaking the rules and commenting on a preview is because I would love to see this show succeed and I secretly hope that it can.
However, if the imbalance continues, and it continues on this mixed path I believe that the show at the Palace will "Die Young".
- Drew Sarich's performance.
- Allison Fischer's performance.
- Sail Me Away, I Want More.
- Carolee Carmello and Hugh Panaro while singing.
- The scenic, lighting, and projection design.
That being said, I think the show's primary fault is a distinct imbalance. The first act is essentially dark and brooding, with a melodrama that leaves the audience not knowing whether to laugh or stifle it. The second act (which bears a distinct resemblance to an "undead" Huck Finn in the first 15 minutes or so.) has more moments that are obviously played for humor (which isn't always a bad thing), as well as the finer end of the performances.
The whole Gabrielle/Lestat mother/would-be-lover relationship is simply too over the top for a show that is going to try to fill the Palace at $111 a seat.
If the show could find a balance between wit and woe, it might survive based on several fine performances and the Elton John factor. I don't purport to be a director, but I think that Mr. Roth would do well to listen to the audience's reactions (where they are unexpected and/or inappropriate) and fine tune rather quickly. One should also take note of the moments when the audience shifts in their seats, checks their programs, or watches en masse. That is probably a good sign that something should go. There are several moments where there is a line or two beyond where the scene should have ended.
I do believe however, that there is NO saving Taupin's lyrics.
I don't regret seeing the show. Overall, it was an amusing night at the theatre. I also acknowledge that it is a work in progress and can improve significantly. The reason I am breaking the rules and commenting on a preview is because I would love to see this show succeed and I secretly hope that it can.
However, if the imbalance continues, and it continues on this mixed path I believe that the show at the Palace will "Die Young".
Hamlet's father.
