I would wonder why anyone who says "Almost zero shows written before the 21st century have a worldview and politics that sit well with a contemporary viewer" would be working at an organisation whose core function is dedicated to reviving shows mostly written before the 21st century, namely during the "golden age" (so to speak) of musicals.
In fact, on the basis of such a comment, out goes virtually the entire canon which gave musicals the warm place they have in our many hearts. Consider how many musicals have inspired us to live more decent lives, and more compassionate lives, as we leave the theater - Oscar Hammerstein's great desire to send the "giant" out "A gentler giant than when he came in".
Perhaps instead Encores should simply determine what show they liked from, say, twelve months ago and, just as soon as it ends its run, put it straight on again - a surefire way to stay up to date ... and pointless. |
