A WORLD APART FROM TYPICAL FRINGE FARE
Like a breath of fresh air, Jason Robert Brown’s Songs for a New World far exceeded my expectations of both the Fringe and Brown’s uneven song cycle. This is an early work from the Tony-winner for Parade and Bridges of Madison County. “It’s about one moment,” Brown said. “It’s about hitting the wall and having to make a choice, or take a stand, or turn around and go back.” Um, not really. It’s a 1995 collection of trunk songs he cobbled together with Harold Prince’s daughter, Daisy, which means the plot-free entertainment is only as good as the last song. Some of them are forgettable, generic cabaret tunes from the 1980s Maltby & Shire school of “hitting the wall and having to make a choice,” and the...
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Such a beautiful show! Stellar vocal performances in this perfect for Fringe song cycle. Beautifully staged with gripping and hilarious performances. I highly recommend catching this show while you can!!...
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I thought this was a fantastic show. Art is a transformative experience designed to inspire, provoke, or at the very least make us take a moment to think about how we experience the world. I find myself still humming the tunes, two days after I originally saw this production. Everyone can find something they can relate to in this play. To quote one of my childhood heroes, Levar Burton, "you don't have to take my word for it" but you will be missing out if you don't see it! ...
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Okay, I'm a bad fan of musical theatre, because this is the first time I've seen anything by Jason Robert Brown. However, this production is one hell of an introduction to the man and his catalog. I recommend checking this out. The cast is talented, the material is fun, the direction is solid and the band is on point. A cut above your typical fringe faire. Don't miss it. ...
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Moving, funny, exciting and beautifully sung/acted/played production of this very demanding score. The direction and choreography were perfect for this intimate space. Highly recommended!...
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Jason Robert Brown is no easy task and these four actors are stunning in each song, from start to finish. Chris Maikish's insightful direction is moving and sharp and deeply human. It would be hard to ask for a better musical experience at The Fringe. Run don't walk to see this while you can....
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Blown away. Rare to see such great (and difficult) material performed so beautifully. Everyone involved with this production should be super proud. Go!...
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