PJ Revisits "Little Women"

[PJ]

Posted: 3/13/05 at 11:14pm

I was in the city this weekend and aside from my Marymount Manhattan audition, I was able to see a show. I chose "Little Women" again because of how much I had enjoyed it back in December and I was anxious to see how everyone had grown in three months.

First thing's first: The show itself is in fine shape. I can see why it may not be everyone's cup of tea. But then again, is there ever a particular show that appeals to everyone? I was very disappointed to see that the mezz was half empy. Definitely not a good sign for a new musical on a Saturday evening performance, although the orchestra was full.

Anyway, Sutton received thunderous applause upon her entrance, as did Maureen. Both of these two ladies deliver in performances that are not to be missed. All of the March sisters have grown into their characters, most noticeably Jenny Powers. She got quite a few laughs Saturday evening; a few that I don't remember her getting a while ago because of her delivery. But either way, her voice is stunning and she was perfect as Meg. Amy McAlexander and Megan McGinnis were both very good as well. Danny Gurwin was better as well, even though I thought he did well the first time around. So you get my drift about the cast getting better as a whole. On to other points...

The score was a lot more memorable this time around, for me at least. After my first visit, I didn't leave humminh any of the songs except "Astonishing." But this time the score really clicked and it was glorious. As for it being Best Original Score material at the Tonys?...my guess is no. That will go to Spamalot or DRS, I presume. But there was something about the score last evening that was just electric and I don't think I was the only one who felt it. There was such energy on that stage and in the audience, so perhaps that's what made it all the more memorable for me. Speaking of Tonys, my guess is that this show has a good shot at being nominated, and possibly winning, Best Set Design and Best Actress in a Musical for La Sutton. She changed things up a bit in "Astonishing," which I really liked. Most importanly, she's brilliant and deserves another medallion on a plastic base for her work here. I'm not so sure Maureen does, however. I didn't remember her having so little time onstage, but it was evident to me last evening. I think that could really work against her come June. Either way, she's still brilliant.

All in all, another grand performance from the company of "Little Women."

[msutton]

Posted: 3/14/05 at 1:31am

Great re-review. I loved this show...

please refrain from the stones, but I found it's score overall more memorable and, with a couple of blaring exceptions, more complex/beautiful than DRS. "days of plenty" is one of my new favorite songs.