Tony Telecast - - why no visible orchestra?

[JMVR]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 11:18pm

I think it's a terrible move that the Tony telecast is meant to lure people into the world of LIVE theater and yet the orchestra is nowhere to be seen.

Sure, WE know it's back there in a room and actually playing live, but most people who watch don't get this and just assume it's all pre-recorded. Not a strong case for live musicals is it??

[COOOOLkid]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 11:26pm

They should show footage that shows inside the pit, not just the conductor!

[TechEverlasting]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 11:41pm

The music that is played for the show performances is all pre- recorded a week or so in advance. Part of the reason for this is that shows often need to use specific players or instruments. It would be very difficult for one band to accurately represent each show, just imagine going directly from Spring Awakening to Curtains.

The Tonys do still need a live orchestra to start playing when speeches run too long, and I agree that it should be seen.

[chinkie azn jai]

Posted: 6/16/07 at 12:28am

So I guess Spring Awakening was an exception to the rule, since, I assume, they provided their own orchestra.

[scott68]

Posted: 6/16/07 at 12:36am

Do you usually see the orchestra when you see a show live? I mean, of course you know it's there and see the top and front walls, but isn't part of the hallmark of a good pit that it doesn't distract from the action on the actual show? I don't mean to disparage the pit or claim that it isn't important; I've played in several myself, I just feel like unless the pit is intentionally onstage as in Company or Spring Awakening, part of its function is to not be the main attraction.

[SNAFU]

Posted: 6/16/07 at 12:42am

Eh, they should have had the presenters play their own instruments.

[JMVR]

Posted: 6/16/07 at 2:53am

Scott68 - thank you for replying. I think you do see the orchestra in some shows like the Oscars and the Tonys (before this year) as well as on the video releases of most musicals (Fosse, Pippin, Victor/Victoria,etc.)

While you might not see an actual shot of the orchestra, you do see the conductor every so often and in some long shots you get a glimpse. It's not about actually SEEING the musicians and the inside of the pit itself, it's just about subtle reminders that you are watching LIVE entertainment. That's why I think an orchestra should be visible at the Tonys.

I do understand the point TECH makes, but an orchestra should be visibly playing at least the music intros for the presenters, the "back from commercials" vamp, etc. It just adds a touch of realism to the whole thing. Next thing you know, they'll be lip-synching on the show because then they don't have to mike all these casts and the dance breaks will be pre-recorded so the actors are not all sweaty when they change back to their red carpet attire. Sorry . . long rant.