i saw the show last night (11/11).
i was also worried about having a dark haired clara, but there were times when it was an ash blonde (in the light). It wasnt as big of a deal as i thought it would be.
I thought there were tiems when Elena was a LITTLE too obvious about Clara's affliction. She appeared almost mentally disabled as oppossed to stunted. but that was only if i HAD to complain about something. I thought she did a COMPLETELY different take on Clara that was adorableand charming.
I liked David Burnham too. His voice was amazing, and when it took off his shirt in Say It Somehow I wasn't complaining. Haha. Thwere were tiems when teh show was just getting underway and I thought his acting was a little forced. but it got better as teh show went on.
I was grateful that Christine Andreas did somethign TOTALLY different that Victoria Clark. It was a WHOLE new margaret and while I missed the way vicki clark did it, i appreciated the approach Christine had. SHe was much more refined, and her voice was exquisite. I could've listened all day. She had a very lilting soprano that was glorious and then she would unleash this wailing soprano and it was chilling. She was great.
I thought teh supporting cast was very strong as well. I liked Senora Nacarelli better than the woman from teh original production. She felt more motherly. More like a real italian woman (im italian, so I would know haha). I loved franca and guisseppe. the guisseppe was jsut as good as michael berresse's performance, although michael was obviously a better dancer.
the only weak link i thought was teh man whoplayed roy, but its such a small character that it didnt erally matter...
im going to go back. it was an entirely different take on everyones part, and i thought it was amazing!
"The Light in the Piazza....My Love"
