Pacific Overtures- Page 12

[hushpuppy]

Posted: 2/10/15 at 11:22pm

This is one of those shows I will see no matter where, no matter when (another is THE MOST HAPPY FELLA, go figure). I did not see the original, my first exposure was the Promenade performance in 1984.

I saw the Japanese production when it played Lincoln Center. The depiction of the dropping of the atomic bomb in 'Next' was one of the most moving experiences I've ever had in 40 years of theatergoing. I attended the final performance and the show received such a thunderous ovation that the actors appeared visibly moved by the reaction of the audience. I took the train to DC for the day just to see it again at the Kennedy Center (the performance was equally electrifying, the audience, not so much).

Oddly enough, I was disappointed by the Roundabout performance in 2004, but the chance to see Alvin Ing reprise his role as the Shogun's mother made it all worthwhile.

Apropos nothing: I ran into Sab Shimono at a diner in Provincetown a few years but I didn't have the nerve to approach him. Didn't realize he was family.

[Musical Master]

Posted: 4/28/15 at 6:22pm

After watching the OBC tape, I can see why some people really like it, others don't. I'm quite amazed that with the exception of some productions on Broadway, is that we can't have lavish productions like that anymore. The closest comes from some musicals here and there and Lincoln Center Theater productions (THE KING AND I anyone?). 

Such talented people back in 76', some of them are tragically gone. I wonder if a full-scale revival is possible, Ken Watanabe would be perfect as The Reciter.