Wiz Dress

[Unknown User]

Posted: 6/11/09 at 11:19pm

Dress Rehearsals at Encores don't usually get a standing O....maybe Follies did....but this one got a big ovation...and much of it is deserved.

The Good Parts -- LaChanze, Scarecrow, Tinman, Lion and yes Ashanti's singing. The set is really innovative and if you really dig funky 70's choreography and a great orchestra -- then you will really like the show. If you like the obligatory, but completely unnecessary, shirtless male dancers (an Encores signature) -- then you will be very very happy.

The Okay Parts -- Ashanti's acting....some of it is the part, but she also could have a little more spunk...she comes off more Ms Jackson...than little Janet Jackson. Her voice is not big -- but the notes were solid and the tone is really nice. I think overall she is stronger in this role than Anika Noni Rose was in Purlie (another tough Stephanie Mills part). Orlando Jones -- good, not great -- I really look forward to seeing Coleman Domingo in the role later in the run. Evilene was okay -- but I think there were some sound issues which dulled her big Act II number.

The Bad Parts -- The energy in Act II was off....some of it was the material....but the act never seemed to find its way. The sound still needs work -- but that is not unusual for an Encores Dress.

Bottom Line: I wasn't planning to see it a second time, but it was a lot of fun and I think my 6 yr old nephew will really like it.

[LimelightMike]

Posted: 6/11/09 at 11:52pm

What's this with Domingo taking over? Did I miss something? When is this happening?