I agree that some of the designs range from safe to attractive to serviceable, and some costumes call attention to themselves (a costume should become one with the personality and discreetly support the storytelling in its cues about the character, unless the script instructs otherwise) but nothing--including the costumes--make me want to hold a screwdriver over an open flame till it's red and then stick it in my eye. And thanks to the many "updates" and "improvements" (aka: cheapening and profit boosting or "exploitation of success") that most of my favorite musicals have endured, that's a lot of screwdrivers, LOL. I do like the boat, though. I agree about the ginormous "Trocadero" sign.
I'm opinionated as ass and babble for days, but even I know that theatre isn't always perfect and most every production hits a snag or two along the way. It's expected. It has to be, and if the flaws are negligible in that they don't stand in the way of storytelling, then I say it appears to be a success and lend focus on any discernible strengths.
I don't "settle," either. e.g. "They boast a huge orchestra and well sung cast, therefore the huge flaws are magically reduced to negligible." Nuh uh, not so. If something upsets me, it will continue to be like a thorn in my side until it's removed (like the harmony-stripped, overly bright, cliche infested concoction claiming to be Les Mis these days).
If I generally like something, I know they must have done something right. Lord knows how relentless and unforgiving I am when something is limited where it used to soar. Why, I make Margaret White seem tame!
So far, I dig this Show Boat.
Recreation of original John Cameron orchestration to "On My Own" by yours truly. Click player below to hear.
Updated On: 2/15/12 at 01:25 AM
