My overall impression
Janet Miller has magnificently directed a show close to the hearts of many of us. The music is divine, enhanced with the addition of a lovely harp, played by Jillian Risigari-Gai. I have never seen the show done with a harp before and it makes a wonderful addition to so many scenes, often adding magic to the sweep of a hand in the air. It’s no wonder that the original production included a harp!
All of the actors bring a sense of wonder and joy to their roles, with tall, dark and handsome Christopher Karbo cutting a dashing figure as El Gallo, especially the way he can handle a red satin cape. The two fathers are a riot, and their choreography is light and cute at every turn. Although at times it was difficult to hear Luisa and Matt’s words as they were singing, I am sure their volume will pick up as the production continues. Their performances are so brilliant, every word they sing deserves to be heard. The Old Actor and Indian add lots of humor and The Mute handles all the prop needs and scene changes, throwing “rain” and “snow” and building and being the wall with an ease that shows director Miller had a clear vision for how she wanted to show to be seen. And she has succeeded with aplomb.
