There is quite a bit of dialogue lifted from the film. I assume this is mostly due to the fact that the book is in journal form and contains little dialogue, so it is difficult to be too distanced from the film. I do think the score could be beefed up from the Atlanta production (especially the finale), but overall it is good, though not quite memorable. Many times, the songs start off great, but then fall short just as you might think they would take off. As with the film, Sophia is the scene-stealing character that can run away with the show (especially in the number "Hell No"), and the use of the gossipy women are an absolute delight and could be used even more as narrative. Hopefully, the show will be cranked up a couple of notches for Broadway that would put this show over the top. Looking at the upcoming season thus far, it is definitely in the running for a Tony nom for Best Musical (along with Woman in White).
"What can you expect from a bunch of seitan worshippers?" - Reginald Tresilian
