Monday, July 23, 2007
Theater Review: The Pirates of Penzance
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The Pirates of Penzance
- When: Thursday, July 26, 2007, 8 p.m.
- Where: Irving Arts Center, 3333 North MacArthur Boulevard, Irving
- Cost: $15 - $17
- Age limit: All ages
I cannot begin this review without first giving resounding congratulations to the entire cast, crew and orchestra of Irving Community Theater for doing the show in a theater with air conditioning problems. I marveled at how cool they all seemed on stage as I, along with the other patrons in the auditorium, proceeded to sweat an ocean's worth or perspiration.
The Pirates of Penzance is one of the most popular Gilbert and Sullivan shows for it constantly barrages the audience with wit, humor, and toe-tapping musical numbers. For an operetta, the score is amazingly easy to hum. The basic story line doesn't stray away far from the formulaic boy-meets-girl plot but what makes this show so enduring is the array of kooky characters that abound: swashbuckling pirates with conscience, the middle-aged-still-single-but-searching-for-a-man Ruth, the famous modern Major-General who does what is an equivalent of an operatic rap, etc. Each role allows the performer to not only demonstrate their vocal chops, but their comedic acting abilities. When done well this show is as sweet and delicious as confectioner's sugar.
ICT does a remarkable job in giving this oft performed show a unique stylistic signature. By not having any curtains, the audience gets to see the scenery upon walking into the theater. Bruce R. Coleman's scenery sets the tone of the production. The entire stage is made out of what looks like foam board cut outs with illustrations. The message it sends out to the audience is that we are about to witness a Victorian era cartoon. The moment the first overly sanitized and groomed pirates arrive on stage we know this theme is going to be carried out further, and by the time the flock of maidens arrive in their cotton candy colored costumes the effect is completed. This production is visually vivacious and frothy. The direction under David Schmidt adds to the froth by having all the performers spend most of their time facing out to the audience, making the show extremely presentational. Nancy Slater Roberts' choreography is appropriately silly. The lighting design by Sam Nance is bright and pink and makes everything glow. This show has a singular vision, which shows how strong the design and production team are. The only minor flaw, was that two of the performers wore contemporary styled glasses. Because everything was so stylized, this stood out.
Outside of the strong production values, every performer had his or her strengths. John Reba as Richard, the Pirate King, was absolutely perfect. His baritone voice, his swagger, and his presence commanded the stage. Kimberly Ann Smith as Ruth, was not a strong singer, but had such marvelous stage presence and comic timing that she made every line count. I have a feeling she could even make reading the phone book a hysterical experience.
Stephanie Hall is required to sing one of the most difficult roles ever created by Gilbert & Sullivan which is the role of Mabel. Ms. Hall was effervescent like a champagne cocktail. Her coloratura was impeccable. She missed not a note, and was so effortless that she became lighter then air. ICT is very fortunate to have someone of such talent, for with a voice like hers she could easily be performing featured and principal roles at the Dallas Opera. She also must have the most amazing biceps and triceps for she was able to hold her parasol over her head from the moment she entered on stage till the end of her show-stopping "Poor Wandering One" without once lowering it, a span of about 12 minutes.
Pirates of Penzance Trailer (Not ICT's production)
Major-General Stanley played by Russell Vaden was the one role that I didn't care for in the way it was portrayed. Mr. Vaden has a marvelous voice and his vocal delivery of "I am the Very Model of a Modern Major-General" was rapidly delightful. His full rounded voice made this the best sung version of this song that I have heard. Unfortunately, I didn't care of his characterization. I realize that Major-General Stanley has been played as a dowdy old man, a buffoon, an uptight humorless man, and even as a randy fool. Whoever plays this character must make a choice and stick with it. Mr. Vaden played him flamboyantly and stereotypically gay. I personally didn't care for this choice, but I must say he was consistent with his delivery. Perhaps he wanted to be simply flamboyant, which would have worked, but he was so over the top that it became the other and in my estimation it didn't properly gel with the story line. This said, many people in the audience did love his take on this character, and without a doubt he is a very talented performer.
Jonathan Greer as Fredric has a voice that made me swoon. He is a handsome young man with a liquid voice that made the score as sung by him seem almost contemporary. He is not an opera singer though. His voice firmly belongs in musical theater. He would make a marvelous Raoul in Phantom of the Opera, Chris in Miss Saigon, or any of the numerous male leading roles in shows like Les Miserables, Evita, Secret Garden, where the actor sings almost non-stop. Mr. Greer is weakest when he has to deliver spoken lines. He is at times stiff -- he keeps his arms straight on his sides, hard as a board. When he gestures it seems forced, and his stage movements are overly articulated, for example, instead of leaning he would frequently lunge. The minute he starts to sing he relaxes his body and he becomes possessed by the music, and his countenance softens. He is still young and I'm sure with more stage experience he'll be able to relax and look more comfortable on the stage. I know one thing for sure, I will seek out any other show he does just so I can hear him sing again.
The chorus was fantastic -- they filled the stage with their melodious voices. Each word was clear and distinct. The only time they erred was when they performed as the policemen. While vocally they were on pitch and accurate, the execution of the witty choreography was sloppy at times, which unfortunately killed some of the humor.
The orchestra consisted of 4 very busy musicians and they played with much gusto. It would have been nice to have had a larger orchestra, but I do realize there are budgetary constraints. I'm not sure what keyboard was being used and how many settings are available on it, but the "strings" were a little too electronic in sound at times, which at times would disturb the period effect created on stage.
Finally, I must confess something: Before this production I never much cared for The Pirates of Penzance, but after seeing this production I can truly understand why this show has remained so popular for well over a century. And to think that the performance I saw was plagued by a malfunctioning air conditioning system that would have made it difficult for any performer to do their job properly. ICT deserves a big round of applause for pulling this off so effectively.
The Pirates of Penzance will be playing through August 4th, at Irving Arts Center. Tickets and reservations can be made online or by calling 972-252-2787.
Pegasus News content partner: Mark-Brian Sonna Productions
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Comments
mbadaltex101 Anonymous
Mark-Brian Sonna's review of the two roles of Major General Stanley and Fredric are off the mark. I personally saw this production on opening night and have not stopped talking about it ever since. In fact, the two characters that were the most endearing to me were Major General Stanley and Fredric. The actors who played those roles were without a doubt the strongest males on the stage. As for the belief that Fredric was played "stiffly" or that the General was played "gay", I have to question, ARE YOU BLIND?? Those two characters had multiple dimensions to them that were absolutely captivating. They were no more stiff or gay than the review written by Mark-Brian Sonna. In my view, the two actors were portraying a clear juxtaposition between the two characters -- young/earthly-passionate versus old/eccentric. In my book, kuddos are due those two actors. Shame on Mark-Brian for such personal attacks.
1 year, 1 month ago ( Link to this comment | Suggest removal )
CindyLou Anonymous
I must agree with the previous comment. I TOTALLY loved General Stanley (played by Mr. Vaden). He was an absolute trip! There was not one part of the show where I thought he was being gay. His entire time on stage was spent developing a great relationship with the audience. As people left the show, they were coming up to him outside the auditorium saying how much they loved him. Same for Fredrick (played by Mr. Greer). Does the reviewer just not like those two actors or something? Geesh!! Lighten up!!
1 year, 1 month ago ( Link to this comment | Suggest removal )
Mike Orren Staff
Not that it makes their comments any more or less valid, it's interesting to note that the two comments above were posted from the same IP address, meaning likely the same computer and certainly at least the same building.
1 year, 1 month ago ( Link to this comment | Suggest removal )
MaryHindelmann Anonymous
When a friend told me of this crazy review, I had to log in and see it for myself. What a shocker! I would not have expected this kind of review for any of the actors in Pirates of Penzance, but particularly not the ones that were blasted by the reviewer. I echo the concern stated by two other commenters that the review is absolutely unfounded in as much as calling Vaden "gay" and Greer "stiff". I left that production thinking "WOW, WHAT A CAST!" I thought the portrayal of the Major was hysterical. I couldn't stop laughing and clapping. There was never a time where I thought the Major was a gay man. How did that review get invented? Regarding Mr. Greer, all I can say is oh my god, I hope he bats for my team!!!! What a doll. So, to echo my friend, "lighten up, Sonna."
1 year, 1 month ago ( Link to this comment | Suggest removal )
LadyWinston Anonymous
I sat down to read what I thought would be a review soaked with high praise and kudos to a cast and crew that has put on a most successful and entertaining production of Pirates. Instead, I got . . . well . . . this review: "The character of Dr. Vaden was too gay". What???? Did you go to the same production as I? I am clearly in agreement with you that Dr. Vaden's voice is one that is marvelous and his redition of "I am the Very Model . . ." was indeed the most exceptionally sung version I've ever heard; but we are in total disagreement with the dislike of his characterization. Simply put: I have not seen my a*s since opening night, as I laughed it off. I attribute this loss to Dr. Vaden's creative and artistic ability in portraying the Major General. Did he do something new with the character? You bet your a*s! (I'd bet mine, but see the previous statement.) But at no point did I think "too gay". I know "too gay" when I see it and believe me, this wasn't it. In contrast to your thought process, I think it is wonderful and exciting to see something different in theater. To witness creativity. Sure, we can all go see the same ole' Gilbert and Sullivan show and walk away saying, "That was cute. He-he." Or we can see an artist being an artist. Taking risk, and making that risk work. I didn't even get to speak to Dr. Vaden after the show due to so many people surrounding him with praise, and rightfully so. Hopefully when I go to the show this weekend (because I am going back!), I will be able to give Dr. Vaden the continued praise he so rightfully deserves and thank him for being the creative artist that he has proven himself to be. Thank you, Lady Winston.
1 year, 1 month ago ( Link to this comment | Suggest removal )
Haley Anonymous
Okay, let's be fair here. The review did give total credence to what fabulous voices both of the actors in question have. Having seen the show myself a few days ago, I can say that both of those guys were tremendous performers. So, yes, the reviewer was correct in that assessment. However, I'm with everyone else in that there was nothing stiff or gay going on with them. Perhaps too much wine at dinner before the show clouded the reviewer's judgment. I've seen one of those guys in numerous shows all around the metroplex and he always gives outstanding performances. He's certainly continuing that streak with his role in Pirates of Penzance. So, heck yes, he is the very model . . .! You go, Russell. Don't be discouraged by that reviewer. You're way more awesome than he is!
1 year, 1 month ago ( Link to this comment | Suggest removal )
dominicnorris Anonymous
Well, I saw the performance. I thought it was simply phenomenal. All of the characters sang and portrayed their personas beautifully and with poise and professionalism. Not a single cast member seemed to be a novice. The Modern Major General (played by Mr. Vaden) was the best I have ever seen the role played. He was not boring, or stiff or over-rehearsed like I had seen others before. If anything Mr. Vaden's portrayal of the General added a bit of whimsy to the character but not once did I consider him to be "gay." He actually reminded me of "Niles Crane." As for the ICT...bravo! The set was well designed and the auditorium was comfortable. I never noticed there was a problem with the HVAC. Perhaps someone unbiased should write the review next time.
1 year, 1 month ago ( Link to this comment | Suggest removal )
Britt Anonymous
Oh no. I feared it wasn't true, but it is. What a hateful review of some really talented people. It seems that multiple play goers disagree with the review. That speaks volumes. Personally, yes, I saw the show. It was great. I wouldn't have changed a thing about anybody's performance. Too bad Mark Brian Sonna can't recognize good talent when he sees it. This production was flawless in every way. Good going, cast and crew. I smell column nominations from every direction.
1 year, 1 month ago ( Link to this comment | Suggest removal )
Mark-Brian Sonna Verified
I must respond to the "critics" of my review. First, the performance I saw was on Sunday matinee, and there was definitely an issue with the AC system in the building for apologies were being given to us audience members for the "exceptional" warmth.
Secondly, not once did I ever state that I didn't think both Mr. Vaden and Mr. Greer lack talent...on the contrary, they were exceptional preformers. As I stated in the review I didn't care for the choice in characterization Mr. Vaden made, and I must also state I was not the only one who felt this way, but I also clarified that many in the audience liked it. My first thoughts at intermission of my impression on his take on the character was that I perhaps misread his performance, but at intermission I heard this comment being made by someone else in the audience, too, so I knew it wasn't just me.
Regarding Mr. Greer, if I didn't care for his talent I certainly would not make the comment that I would seek him out in other shows. Nor would I recommend him play Raoul in Phantom, Chris in Ms. Saigon, etc. which are some of the greatest roles for young men in modern era musicals. This said, it doesn't stop the fact that he was stiff during the acting portion of the performance I saw. Perhaps the heat affected him?
Lastly, I do mention that "every performer" had his or her strengths. I do preface and close the review by commending ICT for a remarkable show giving them "resounding congratulations" & a "big round of applause". I definitley wouldn't make this statement if I didn't think this was a show worth seeing. Mark-Brian Sonna
1 year, 1 month ago ( Link to this comment | Suggest removal )
Mike Orren Staff
Mark, thanks for coming and responding to the critics.
Frankly, I've never seen so much angst over what is a really positive review.
1 year, 1 month ago ( Link to this comment | Suggest removal )
David Gouldin Verified
I wouldn't put much stock in any of their responses, Mark. Every single one of them registered the day they posted and has only posted 1 comment. Seems pretty clear to me that somebody with an agenda rallied the troops to try to discredit you. Not that stage performers are ever known to cause drama ...
1 year, 1 month ago ( Link to this comment | Suggest removal )
dfmsjackie Anonymous
Now THIS is great theatre....Jets and Sharks! Anyway....the HVAC WAS out...but is now fixed....
1 year, 1 month ago ( Link to this comment | Suggest removal )
LadyWinston Anonymous
Actually, no one rallied me. I even stated that I agreed with a portion of his review. But as not everyone agrees with your review, not everyone is going to agree with my rebutal. But for anyone to call this "drama" I feel to be a quite immature way to deal with disagreeing opinions. You're a reviewer of theater, you will get critisism, more so than not. Critisism and drama are two different items. I beleive most were very articulate in assessing why they disagreed with you. I don't beleive it was a case of "discrediting" you, just simply disagreeing with you. And whether or not you put stock in a persons response is your business, but as a professional, listening to your audience, staff, or team is a characteristic of maturity and an opportunity to learn; whereas ignoring it without truly listening is, well, the opposite of that.
But there was no drama here. Just opinions.
And, David, posting one comment means absolutely nothing except that people stated their opinion and don't feel the need to repeat that opinion. A person that repeats the same opinion is not adding creadance to that opinion, it just makes them annoying. (i.e. The war in Iraq is necessary for the security of our nation (repeated daily by GWBush)
-Lady Winston
1 year, 1 month ago ( Link to this comment | Suggest removal )
David Gouldin Verified
I wasn't referring to 1 comment on this thread. You're the first of the bunch to have made more than 1 comment on the site in general. Duplicate IP addresses, brand new registration, and only 1 post on the site are all troll indicators, and this thread has 'em all.
1 year, 1 month ago ( Link to this comment | Suggest removal )
CindyLou Anonymous
Troll indicators? Oh, how nice. What this thread really has indicators of is small-minded people who can't handle their opinions being challenged. Grow up and stop trying to discredit your audience from having an opinion. I hope your editors/managers are considering your staff members' comments to your readership. They'll be interested to know how you're spending your time and efforts trying to accuse people of being "trolls" rather than fostering meaningful dialog about the arts.
1 year, 1 month ago ( Link to this comment | Suggest removal )
Mike Orren Staff
CindyLou:
While I think troll is a strong word, it is clear that this was not an organic uprising of indignation from regular readers/commenters. That said, I appreciate your expressing any opinions on this review or anything else on the site.
We believe that our readers should have all the information possible to assess the source and validity of our published review and of any comments. As I said, it doesn't make your opinion any less valid, but it does seem a bit misleading to post two comments from the same location without acknowledging that they are related.
We very much want meaningful dialog about the arts -- and I am the "manager" here. Here's a starting topic for discussion: Do you agree or disagree with the many compliments Mark bestowed on the production and the players, outside of the criticisms that bothered you?
1 year, 1 month ago ( Link to this comment | Suggest removal )
LadyWinston Anonymous
So I am a first-timer when it comes to expressing an opinion on the site and that makes my opinion worthy of a troll. Well, okay. I'm sure there is logic in there somewhere. . .
I disagreed with the part of the review that said Dr. Vaden was 'too gay', and expressed an opinion. So be it. You and your staff of Nancy Drews can sit around and figure out who is who, what computer they use, how many times they've logged on, what they were wearing when they expressed said opinion and then decide who's opinion is worth anything and who's isn't.
Like I said, I pointed out my disagreement, as well as what I agreed with. It's an opinion.
Thanks, Lady Troll, I mean Lady Winston
1 year, 1 month ago ( Link to this comment | Suggest removal )
Mark-Brian Sonna Verified
To Lady Winston: I think your rebuttal to my critique was good. You saw the performance one way, I saw it another. I don't know what night you saw it, but as we both know with all live theatre performances vary from night to night; perhaps the day I saw it he got a little more carried away with some of the mannerisms then the day you saw it, hence my impression. The bottom line is: this was a worthwhile show to go see. And I agree with Britt, I do see it receiving many nominations come award season. To the rest of the people who have written in: I think it's great that Pegasus News allows for review rebuttals/commentary. You definitely don't get this from most of the other news organizations in the city. I think this does a great service to the theatre community and to the potential public, for hopefully this will generate much more interest in what is an outstanding theatre community. Mark-Brian Sonna
1 year, 1 month ago ( Link to this comment | Suggest removal )
StringPlaya Anonymous
Disclaimer: I am affiliated with the reviewed production.
First, let me point out a factual error in this review: There are only 3 musicians, not the credited 4. I realize that four are mentioned in the playbill, but you can't always believe what you read!
Second, I must strongly disagree with Mr. Sonna's opinion that the character of Major General Stanley was played too gay. Given my affiliation with the production, take that as a biassed opinion, but I have seen Mr. Vaden play a character much more flamboyant (The Mikado). His Stanley portrayal was stereo-typical of a british buffoon, but not (IMO) gay. His portrayal was very deliberate and definitely not gay. Label it whatever you like, but I strongly enjoyed everything about Russel's portrayal.
Finally, let me just say that these are the finest actors, musicians and craftsmen I have ever met. Their dedication and talent is awesome to witness from the pit. I get a front-row seat for every performance and it is a privilege.
-- Steve Cullen
1 year, 1 month ago ( Link to this comment | Suggest removal )
csgibson88 Anonymous
Critics do what critics do, critique! I'm glad I could attend the performance of Pirates with a different agenda - I went for entertainment and was not disappointed. Only the people closest to me could hear the thud when my jaw hit the floor during the Major General's opening number. It was a stunning rendition of a very complex "opera-rap" - I loved it. Frederick was delightful, and I just wanted to float away with the coloratura as Stephanie soared ever higher.
Even from my seat in the very back row I felt like I was included in everything that took place on-stage. So, if your agenda is to be entertained then go see Pirates and enjoy the performance. You won't be disappointed.
1 year, 1 month ago ( Link to this comment | Suggest removal )
txaggie78 Anonymous
I attended the Thursday 7/26th performance of The Pirates of Penzance on the recommendation of a friend. The theater temperature was mentioned earlier in a comment. That evening, the theater was very comfortable, although they did have a huge AC unit to help cool the lobby. Bravo to the ICT staff for making this possible. Now for the show. The set was ingenious, looking every bit like a childhood pop up picture book, the costumes were fantastic and as I understand it, were all designed and made by the Costume Designer, Tory Padden and her costume assistants. I was thoroughly entertained that evening! All of the cast members were excellent in their characterizations and their voices were first rate, in fact of professional quality. I was very impressed by the talent I found in a small community theater company. Stephanie Hall's voice is as beautiful as she is and impressive singing the very musically difficult role of Mabel. Mr. Reba's portrayal of the Pirate King was great and his very masculine baritone voice was perfect for his character. John Greer in the role of Fredrick has a beautiful voice, an equally handsome face and is on his way to being an outstanding DFW performer. The star of the show in my opinion, was Russell Vaden as Major-General Stanley. Mr. Vaden's characterization reminded me of Nigel Bruce portraying Dr. Watson in the old Sherlock Holmes movies. His beautiful baritone voice is flawless and his rendition of the very difficult song "I Am the Very Model of a Modern Major-General" is hilariously funny, impressive and memorable. I was so impressed with this production, I returned on Sunday afternoon and brought a friend. I would recommend this show to anyone who loves musical theater and especially Gilbert & Sullivan. If you can, make reservations now to see one of the last three performances of this wonderful show.
1 year, 1 month ago ( Link to this comment | Suggest removal )
Winstonglenn Anonymous
The Pirates of Penzance is a show that’s very dear to my heart. I’ve seen various productions throughout the years and was thrilled to have been asked to accompany Mark Brian Sonna to one of ICT’s Sunday matinee performances of The Pirates of Penzance. Mr. Sonna, as many of you are well aware of, was asked to attend for the purposes of reviewing the show. Knowing the show as I do I was anxious to share my thoughts regarding various aspects of this production and I had an opportunity both during intermission as well as after the show to do so. I agree with Mark Brian regarding the fact that the theatre was a bit on the warm side as it was apparent that a portion of the building was having AC issues. As an actor, singer, performer and musician I marveled at how well the cast did under seemingly uncomfortable conditions taking into consideration lighting, costuming, etc., not to mention the tremendous amount of energy each performer expelled. AC issues aside I thought this was a wonderful production which was very well executed. With that said, I must say that I thought Mr. Sonna’s review of the show was valid and fair. One of my favorite roles in The Pirates of Penzance is the role of Major-General Stanley. I am aware that many of you don’t agree with Mr. Sonna’s comments regarding Vaden’s portrayal of General Stanley. I, too, didn’t care for Vaden’s characterization choice in portraying the role. Vaden’s General Stanley did come across “to me” as effeminate and somewhat flamboyant. That’s just my opinion, but looking at it from another angle what can one expect if you had raised and been around as many daughters as General Stanley had for all those years? Seriously, as an actor that is quite fond of the role I personally would have made a different characterization choice. Vaden has a beautiful voice and is apparently a strong actor and I must say that he was consistent in his characterization from beginning to end. I would love to see Vaden perform in other roles. As for Jonathan Greer as Fredric…There’s no doubt that the guy has tremendous potential. He did appear stiff and his gestures rigid and forced. This may very well have been the intention on the part of the director and not the actor’s interpretation by any means. In all fairness, Greer’s overall performance and musical abilities far outweighed the seemingly odd mechanical gestures and rigid body stance. In conclusion not everyone will always agree on an actor’s choice in portraying a character, the director’s vision, etc, etc. One thing is for certain…We’re always going to have critics reviewing productions and the chances of a critic applauding our performance or criticizing our work is simply a fact of life and a chance we have to take if you’re one who is willing to put yourself and your heart on the line. This is a tough business and extremely subjective. We have to learn to take the punches along with the praises. Kudos to all of you in the cast for a job well done.
DGF (Winstonglenn)
1 year, 1 month ago ( Link to this comment | Suggest removal )
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