The Frogs

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

Camelot

 Camelot
Lincoln Center Theater
at the Vivian Beaumont
July 1, 2023 

Photo courtesy of
Lincoln Cetner Theater

The Lincoln Center Theater revival of Lerner & Loewe’s Camelot tells the tale of an idyllic realm, built on the belief in equality and justice.  The book, revised by Aaron Sorkin, focuses on the challenge of this ideal, and the battle between intellect and mysticism.  Bartlett Sher majestically directs this stellar cast, drawing the audience into a regal world of knighthood, integrity, and respect, which dissolves due to jealousy, mistrust, and treachery.

Princess Guenevere of France (played by Phillipa Soo) is promised to King Arthur of England (played by Andrew Burnap) in a treaty of peace between their countries.  Guenevere, unhappy about her pending nuptials, offers her dowry to a stranger she meets in the forest to help her escape.  Little does she know that this stranger is Arthur, who has been walking in the woods out of nervousness over meeting his new bride.  Arthur sings to Guenevere of the idyllic Camelot, the Camelot of his dreams, the metaphor of his perfect and peaceful home.  She agrees to go with him to the castle, where she joins him in creating this utopia.  She and Arthur discuss the possibilities of transforming his band of knights into a noble assembly, with equal voice and influence.  The knights are uncertain about this change, but are definitely averse to Arthur’s decision to invite the French to join his round table.  Lancelot de Lac (played by Jordan Donica) travels from France and pledges his honor to King Arthur and his vision for Camelot.  Lancelot is strong and suave.  He quickly gains the trust of the king, and catches the eye and heart of the queen.    

Phillipa Soo, Andrew Burnap, & Jordan Donica
Photo courtesy of Lincoln Center Theater

King Arthur is written as a young man who unwillingly has the crown thrust upon him when he
removed the sword, Excalibur, from the stone.  Andrew Burnap nobly portrays this youth with charm and ambition.  He is eager to make his mark on the kingdom and create a better future for its people.  He transforms into a ethical leader, yet never loses his youthful outlook.  Phillipa Soo portrays Guenevere as a feisty, determined young woman.  She takes her role as queen seriously, while joyfully participating in shaping the court and kingdom to her husband’s vision.  They become true partners.  Jordan Donica’s Lancelot is bold and confident.  His commitment to his beliefs and role as a knight outweigh his secret passion for Guenevere.  These three actor have luminous chemistry.  They develop their relationships through integrity and respect.  Their singing voices soar, filling the theatre with joyous passion. 

Photo courtesy of Lincoln Center Theater

The entire cast delivers excellent performances.  Dakin Matthews is wise and grounded as both Merlyn and Pellinore.  Taylor Trensch is sneaky and undermining as Mordred.  Marilee Talkington is mysterious and conniving as Morgan Le Fey.

Set design by Michael Yeargan is truly magnificent.  The interiors of the castle are simple and expansive.  The space then opens up even further to sprawling exterior scenes.  The projections by 59 Productions and lighting by Lap Chi Chu enhance the set design by creating intimate areas and vast regions. 

Photo courtesy of Lincoln Center Theater

The opening scene between Arthur and Guenevere is Mr. Sorkin’s strongest writing.  The characters are
introduced with wit and humor, smoothly establishing the conflict between them and vigorously setting the story in motion.  

Camelot is set to close on July 23.  Time is running out.  Get your tickets while you still can. 

Domenick Danza