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Ruby Griffith Critique (continued) Singing, Dancing, and Choreography The singing was generally strong in the show. Especially strong voices were shown by Jennifer Greene (Susan), Christopher Smith (Josh), Sara Charbonneau (Miss Watson), and Gordon Kiefer (MacMillan). Ms. Greene’s numbers “Let Me Give You Stars” and “All the Time in the World” were exceptionally beautiful. The ensemble voices were well done in such numbers as “Welcome to MacMillan Toys” and “Susan’s Friends”. Problems were evident with the voices of Little Josh and Billy. They are at that in-between and changing stage of life where there is a shrill quality to the sound. As a result, numbers such as “Big Boys” came across harsh and poorly. The Directors might have considered cutting some songs or perhaps speaking rather than singing some lines. The dancing and choreography were well done. There was a great deal of focused energy in these scenes. Particularly impressive was Mr. Smith’s leaping off stairs and back flips which added significantly to that scene. Orchestra and Musical Accompaniment The orchestral accompaniment for this production was generally well done. The music was usually on tune and on key. However, at several points, the accompaniment overwhelmed the singers, especially the children’s voices. Also, the orchestra seemed somewhat undisciplined and even rowdy. For example, in pre-show they were particularly loud when “tuning up” and very demonstrative in moving about and waving their instruments in the air. On one evening, the overture did falter in tempo as it was begun in the Conductor’s absence. Costumes, Makeup, and Hair For the most part, the costumes were well done, well fitting, and were appropriate for the production. As it was a modem setting many of the costumes may have been the actors’ own clothing. The makeup and hairstyles were unobtrusive appropriate for the period and the characters. Set and Props The set and set pieces were imaginative, well designed and well co The set met the highest “professional’ standards; it was beautiful. Congratulations are in order to the team who put this together — Joy Prentice, David Lashof, and Robert Jones. The two homes were lovely, giving action on dual levels — a good use of space. The Toy Store was magnificent with lovely colors. The office was excellent with those fine stairways. The overall concept for most of the scenes gave multiple levels, good depth and texture. The set pieces were nicely done, particularly Zoltan’s booth. The props were also well done and appropriate to their purpose. |