As a woman who is not feeling very encouraged by the American experiment these days, I appreciate and respect what they’re trying to do. I’m also not a strict traditionalist when it comes to theater. Does it always work? No, not always, but that may have to do with individual performers and directorial choices and not with gender.
Star-making performances from Sara Porkalob as Rutledge (she’s outstanding) and Crystal Lucas-Perry as John Adams. Loved “Mama Look Sharp” sung by women - really an emotional gut-punch.
Occasionally, I found I didn’t need to be hit over the head quite so hard with the messaging, but I did enjoy it. My daughter had never seen any version of it (to my eternal shame) and liked it very much - but is also a millennial who wasn’t as bothered by the “this is IMPORTANT!” bonks on the head. She thought they were going to have to do some recasting before NY (with some terrific performances, others who were not as good stood out). Her other complaint was there is a lot of stage business and dance during “Molasses to Rum” and she would’ve really liked to have just been able to listen to the lyrics. I had to agree - that amazing song stands on its own and I’m not sure it needs all of the extras.
On the whole, we liked it. I hope it succeeds.
And I have to mention Sara Porkalob again - WOW. |
