What I liked
This is a courageous premise and I appreciate the empathetic portrayal of Yousef‘s character. His character was almost a reluctant victim of government-influenced manipulation. Except for his obvious delusions. But the actor playing Yousef sells it with emotion, funny microexpressions, and solid singing. The score had a few unexpected off-chord tones and the delayed rhymes also made me smile. There are some memorable lines in here, too.
What I didn't like
Yousef‘s motives are sort of reduced to humble beginnings and identitarian loyalty. At least this is true in Act I. Not wrong, but incomplete. Because the character was otherwise treated well, this was not too distracting for me. I’d like to see a more compelling backstory and motive develop that can’t be reduced to unresolved childhood trauma.
My overall impression
Act I of Coleman Moore’s “9/11 Preludes” is a melodious courtship between Ramzi Yousef (of WTC bombing fame) and a network of mafia and federal government actors. Good singing. Funny interactions. Come for the intrigue; stay for the counterpoint.
