Knowing my weekend was filled and I'd have to miss the full production, I sat in on part of the dress rehearsal on Thursday for Indianapolis Civic Theatre's concert version of "Camelot." I'd love to hear from anyone who saw the full production.
Friday meant the Indianapolis Opera's season opening production of "Ariadne auf Naxos" (more on that later). Then it was a run to Chicago for the gloriously silly--as well as beautifully sung and danced--revival/rediscovering of "Animal Crackers" and a revisit to the coming-this-season-to-Indy "Jersey Boys."
Why the second look at the Four Seasons musical? First, because it's a blast. Second, because I'll be hosting a live on-stage interview with "Jersey Boys" cast members on Oct. 19 at the Murat Theatre and I wanted to look more closely about what makes it work so well.
So what did I miss?
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Flaming Guns is very well done with a strong cast. Act one is strangely funny, with less horror, but act two makes up for it with more horror and a healthy 2nd dose of funny. In the end, its an enjoyable show and great this time of year!
Zombieland was a hoot. There's a lot of funny here and a ton of zombies!
I also went to the Indieana Handicraft Fair at Harrison Center for the Arts both on Friday and on Saturday! Made a lot of purchases of unique handmade items for holiday gifts for my family, including music poster art and a handmade purse.
Type in Indy Acoustic Cafe series in your search engine to see a list of the great artists coming this season.
Headlining the evening was Tobin Strader as King Authur. The magic of his voice alone made the experience quite memorable. His clear and crisp command of the music--as well as the story's emotional range--made me wish he had been opposite Julie Andrews on Broadway.
Paul Nicely's Lancelot Du Lac was a disappointment. It did not equal his terrific performance as Agustin Magaldi in Evita, and it was no match for Strader's Arthur.
Theresa Koleszar did well as Guenevere, though her voice was far better than her inconsistent script reading. Kudos to her "costume designer;" she was radiant and impeccable throughout the night.
Philip Christiansen was a convincing Merlyn.
Daniel Draves as Pellinore was most fun; his comic relief hit all the right notes all night long.
Michael Simms's Mordred was excellent and dark, but his overly thick accent was distracting.
The Ladies and Knights were noble support from start to finish. For me, their highlight was adding great drama to the jousting scene.
Lastly, it was truly special to see the orchestra on stage and to the hear the audience's repeated appreciation of their role in the magical night. Their skill and the cast's talent didn't make me wish for scenery or costumes for even one minute. Bravo!
I cannot wait to experience My Fair Lady!