King Kong

King Kong

The Broadway Theatre

October 20, 2018

Photo courtesy of King Kong

I believe the measure of a good story is in how well it is told, and the Broadway production of King Kong tells this well-known tale with brilliant, captivating theatricality.  Drew McOnie, Director/Choreographer, partners with a creative team of designer to deliver a truly mesmerizing production.  Scenic and Projection Designer Peter England creates jaw-dropping seascapes and monumental structures.  The Video & Projection Image Content by Artists in Motion keeps the action moving at a phenomenal pace with breathtaking specificity.  Lighting Designer Peter Mumford pulls out all the stops while keeping your eyes focused on every moment.  Sound Designer Peter Hylenski creates a giant with earth shaking sound.  Drew McOnie’s choreography is mammoth.  It sets the tone for the production from the opening scene and continually entertains with movement that metaphorically echoes the dramatic action of the story.

Christiani Pitts as Ann Darrow with Kong
Photo courtesy of King Kong

Christiani Pitts portrays Ann Darrow, the heroine and love interest of Kong, as determined and fearless.  She does not back down or scream in fear.  Instead she stands up for herself and her beliefs, giving Kong the courage to fight back.  Her characterization is more reflective of a woman of the twenty-first century than one of 1931, when the show takes place.  This gives the story a new dimension.  Her dream of stardom, inner conflict, and personal growth are the through-line of the plot.

Ann Darrow & Eric William Morris
Photo courtesy of King Kong

Eric William Morris plays Carl Denham, the filmmaker who captures Kong.  His character is bold and cunning, and juxtaposed by the character of Lumpy, played with heart and tenderness by Eric Lochtefeld.

The true star of this show is Kong, a twenty foot beast operated by ten on-stage puppeteers.  These amazing artists are visible throughout the productions, as are the cables holding up the giant animal.  They become one with the creature.  Their movements are precisely choreographed.  Watching them create the illusion is part of the theatricality of the experience.  Kudos to Gavin Robins, the Kong/Aerial Movement Director, and Jon Hoche, the Voice of Kong.

This show is far more than astonishing spectacle.  It is brilliant theatricality that can only be accomplished through a high level of collaboration, ingenuity, and commitment.  King Kong is presently in previews at The Broadway Theatre.  It is a mind blowing experience. 

Domenick Danza