The Frogs
Master Voices
Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall
November 4, 2023
Photo courtesy of Master Voices
The Frogs, with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, was performed in concert by Master Voices at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall. It was a rare opportunity to experience this unique musical theatre piece. Based on the 405 BC comedy by Aristophanes, the book was adapted by Burt Shevelove in 1974. It was revived by Lincoln Center in 2004, with additional music by Mr. Sondheim. That production was directed and choreographed by Susan Stroman, with book revisions by Nathan Lane. Mr. Lane introduced and narrated this concert presentation.
Dionysos, the god of theatre and wine (played by Douglas Sills), realizes there is a desperate need for truth and humor in present day theatrical productions. He takes his servant, Xanthias (played by Kevin Chamberlin), on a quest. They travel to Hades to bring back George Bernard Shaw (played by Dylan Baker) to write new work. While crossing the River Styx, Xanthias and Charon, the Boatman (played by Chuck Cooper), save Dionysos after he is captured by a group of frogs. Upon arrival in Hades, they meet Plato (played by Peter Bartlett), who allows Shaw to leave for a short period of time. They are all set to depart until Dionysos encounters a few other surprises that alter his original plan.
This stellar cast and brilliant chorus presented this lesser-known Sondheim gem with skill and grace. There were masterful and humorous performances by Douglas Sills, Kevin Chamberlin, Marc Kudisch, Chuck Cooper, Peter Bartlett, Dylan Baker, Jordan Donica, and Candice Corbin. The choreography by Lainie Sakakura was creative and energizing. Director/Conductor Ted Sperling delivered a stunning concert event.
This presentation of The Frogs played for only one weekend (November 3 & 4). Congratulations to Master Voices for making it memorable. Check out their website for future concert performances (mastervoices.org). They are sure to be valuable experiences.
Domenick Danza
No comments:
Post a Comment