In the realm of musical theater, where melodies and narratives intertwine, the revival of lesser-known gems like Brigadoon and Flower Drum Song is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling. These productions, each with their unique charm and challenges, offer a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of musical theater and the enduring appeal of certain themes and characters. But what makes these revivals truly captivating is the way they challenge our perceptions and invite us to reconsider the classics.
The Allure of *Brigadoon*
Brigadoon, a musical that transports audiences to a mystical Scottish village, is a prime example of how a fresh perspective can breathe new life into a timeless tale. The original, with its airy-fairy book and romantic hokum, might seem dated to some. Yet, the Pasadena Playhouse revival, directed and choreographed by Katie Spelman, showcases the enduring appeal of its music and characters. The production's modern twist, led by playwright Alexandra Silber, is a delightful surprise. The dynamic singing and dancing, coupled with a nuanced understanding of the characters, make this Brigadoon a must-see.
What makes this revival particularly fascinating is the way it navigates the challenges of updating a musical with a wholesome sensibility. Silber's adaptation, while not without its lumpy patches, successfully modernizes the story without losing its essence. The production's assertive interventions, particularly in the female characters, bring a sense of contemporary relevance to the story. The way it handles the gender dynamics, with Tyne Daly's captivating performance as Widow Lundie, is a testament to the power of storytelling to transcend time.
The musical theater prowess of Max Von Essen and Happy Anderson, as Tommy Albright and Jeff Douglas, respectively, is a highlight. Their comic chemistry, combined with Von Essen's Tony-nominated voice, adds a layer of charm to the production. The production's scenic design, by Jason Sherwood, is a work of art in itself, with a stage curtain that is a masterpiece. The 22-piece orchestra, under the music supervision of Darryl Archibald, draws out the sublime color of Frederick Loewe's music, making the experience truly memorable.
The Evolution of *Flower Drum Song*
Flower Drum Song, on the other hand, is a musical that has grappled with representation and cultural sensitivity. The original, with its stereotypes and cliches, has been a subject of debate. David Henry Hwang's rewrite, which premiered at the Mark Taper Forum in 2001, aimed to provide a more authentic reflection of Asian American experience. However, the production's move to New York faced challenges, and the musical has been a work in progress ever since.
The East West Players and Japanese American Cultural and Community Center's revival, directed by Lily Tung Crystal, is a quest for deeper authenticity. The production is most effective when the actors are singing, particularly Grace Yoo, who plays Mei-Li. Her rendition of 'A Hundred Million Miracles' is a standout moment. However, the update struggles to balance its good intentions with the tendency of musical comedy to rely on caricatures. The tension between the update's earnestness and the need for humor is a challenge that Hwang's rewrite aims to address.
The revival's fluid staging, full of agile and vibrant design choices, is a testament to the production's commitment to authenticity. However, the update falters between eras, and the musical's original score remains a significant hurdle. The production's success lies in its ability to navigate the complexities of representation and cultural sensitivity, but it is a journey that requires a re-imagination of the musical's core elements.
In conclusion, the revivals of Brigadoon and Flower Drum Song are a testament to the power of storytelling to transcend time and cultural boundaries. These productions, with their unique challenges and triumphs, offer a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of musical theater and the enduring appeal of certain themes and characters. As audiences continue to seek new experiences, these revivals remind us of the importance of preserving and re-imagining the classics.
