Movin' Out review

[citylights]

Posted: 4/21/04 at 10:04pm

I went to today's matinee of Movin' Out...this was the second time I'd seen it (once on tour). Our seats were great- front row mezz on the right. When I got a look at the program I was kind of disappointed that I wouldn't be seeing Michael Cavanaugh or the regular cast of dancers (Wed/Sat mats have a separate cast of principals). I ended up really liking them though, and since it was my second time I could take in more of what was going on. The one thing I really disliked, though, was the moving platform the band was on- they were only partway off the ground for "Scenes From An Italian Restaurant", and that made the whole scene look somewhat cramped underneath it.
Ted Banfalvi (Eddie) was absolutely spectacular. His emotion really came through in "Scenes From..." and "River of Dreams" medley.
Stuart Capps (James) was really nice to watch, the ballet choreography just flows on him and looks very natural.
Meg Paul was good as Brenda...Uptown Girl has such bouncy choreography (and it's my favorite song in the show). I think Holly Cruikshank on the tour looked the part more though.
Christopher Body was great as Tony; he made all the pas de deux work look effortless! There was this one beautiful pose when he and Meg were dancing together when they both arched back away from one another, Meg's head was almost on the floor and the general effect was just stunning.
Oriada (Judy) was my favorite, I was tearing up during her two pointe pieces, which were really amazing. (Especially so because I dance and hope someday to be able to go en pointe.)
Henry Haid was excellent on piano/vocals...I think his pronunciation sounded a little strange (like he emphasized "a boTTle oF reD", where on the recording it sounds more like "a boddle a red") but mostly it was fine. I can't decide who I liked more, Daryl (sp? sorry if wrong) from the tour or Henry.

Blown away by this show overall- it seems like "lift a woman high over my head, then toss her and catch her? No problem!" when it must be really difficult..."I've Loved These Days" had all kinds of acrobatic-looking moves happening, simply incredible.
I waited at the stagedoor and got signatures from Ted, Oriada, and Henry...they were all very patient and courteous, considering that there was a school group or two there mobbing them.
Updated On: 4/21/04 at 10:04 PM

[nystateomind04]

Posted: 4/21/04 at 10:17pm

great review, i really want to see the show, but wont be able to until next year. glad to know that the other cast is effective as well.