Jersey Boys...the film based on the musical

Jersey Boys, the movie based on the Tony award winning Broadway musical, is a must see! Whether you grew up with the Four Seasons or you are a fan of the musical, you have got to check out this film. John Lloyd Young plays Frankie Valli but not only does he play the part in the film but he made his Broadway debut in the role when the musical opened on Broadway in 2005.  He also won the Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical for this role in 2006. Needless to say his voice was my favorite part of the film. I first saw the musical Jersey Boys in the West End in London. I thoroughly enjoyed the music so when I heard they were making a movie based the musical I knew I had to see it. Plus, with Clint Eastwood directing I knew it would be good. So last week on opening day I took my parents, who had never seen the musical but loved the music of the Four Seasons, to see the film. Though it seemed a bit long at over 2 hours it was incredible. The music was spectacular and the acting was right there with it. The actors were believable and played off each other well. But what really made the day special was that my dad really enjoyed it. He’s from that generation and hearing those songs again made him light up. This movie is definitely going under the tree for him this Christmas. This film is full of heart, heartbreak and music. So if you have not seen this movie you should. You will not be disappointed.

Maleficent

Maleficent, yes I know it’s a film and not a live stage production but I still wanted to talk about it. Firstly, let me state that I have always admired Angelina Jolie and think she is a wonderful actress. That being said, I loved this movie! From the opening scene all the way to the finale I was captivated. It was wonderful to see the back-story of Maleficent. The film had wonderful effects and the story moved along at a good pace. I was never once bored or wondering how much longer this film would last. Without giving anything away I will say that there were a few twists in this film but they added depth to the characters and I believe made the film better because it wasn’t so predictable.  I had been looking forward to this film for months and was worried that it wouldn’t live up to my expectations. But it not only lived up to them it surpassed them. Both my mother and I thoroughly enjoyed this film and look forward to watching it again at home when it comes out on DVD. I realize that this was a short commentary but I didn’t want to spoil it for those of you who haven’t seen it. So go out and see it on the big screen while you can. You won’t be disappointed.   

"Godspell" at Interlakes Theatre

Hello Theatre goers, 

Godspell, now playing through Sunday June 29^th at Interlakes Theatre in Meredith, NH is definitely worth checking out. It is a show based on the Gospel according to St. Matthew and is beautifully directed and choreographed by Kenney Green. As the show began, the actors entered behind a scrim and began their opening lines. Having not heard this show for quite a while as well as never having seen it live, it took me a few minutes to grasp what was occurring. However, it didn’t take long before I was thoroughly enjoying myself.  Though the whole show was wonderful, there were a few performances that really caught my attention. The first is the small but fierce Gabrielle Petrosino. She was the first actor on stage and her voice immediately drew me into the show. When it came time for her solo leading the group in “Learn Your Lessons Well” I was amazed at the power of her voice. As the show continued she continued to impress me with not only her singing but her dancing and spunky stage presence. Secondly, is an old favorite of mine, Mikey LoBalsamo. His performance of “Light of the World” was incredible. Last but certainly not least, is the performance given throughout the show from Shawn Smith who portrayed Jesus. His smooth yet powerful voice and wonderful portrayal of Jesus gave me chills. And of course I can’t discuss a musical without discussing the dancing. The show features a fun tap dance amongst the jazz numbers and the performers not only knew the dances but seemed to really enjoy performing them as well. Overall, this show is fun yet moving and should not be missed.  I’m certainly glad I saw it and I am looking forward to the rest of Interlakes summer season.

A few side notes & my thoughts on "The 21st Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee"

Hello All,

It’s been a number of months since my first posting but here I am with a second helping of Theatre and all its fantastic craziness. I’ve kept quite busy lately but have had the opportunity to see a few productions. One of the better ones was The 21^st Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee produced by Colonial Chorus Players in Reading, MA. I was able to enjoy this witty and charming musical one afternoon last fall. I had seen a few of the actors in previous productions and really enjoyed their work so I knew I was bound to enjoy this as well. Though I had heard of this musical before, I had not seen it and therefore did not know that audience members were pulled onto the stage to participate in the spelling. And of course I am one of those lucky audience members who got to go up on the stage and participate. Lucky me, it was like middle school all over again. May I point out that I didn’t enjoy middle school and that included the class spelling bees. Spelling has never been my strongest talent so when I had to spell words I had never heard of in front of an audience I was, to say the least, less than thrilled. Thankfully, because of my lack of spelling skills, I was able to get off the stage about half way through the first act and go back to my seat. Once back in my seat I was able to laugh and enjoy the remainder of the show. Though I would have much rather have stayed in my seat for the whole show I did enjoy my afternoon. The cast was colorful and fun. Overall, I enjoyed the production and I look forward to seeing the next one, which is actually in a few weeks, Young Frankenstein.  I hear from an inside source that there is plenty of tap dancing. Sounds like a good time to me. And don’t worry I will post my comments the same week I see it and not wait months like last time.

Keep your eyes open as throughout the summer I will be seeing, reviewing and posting about shows taking place throughout New England. I may also review a film or two. You’ll have to wait and see. But until then go out and enjoy some live theatre in your area.