Review: MAESTRO at 59E59 is an Inspired and Enthralling Production

"As composers, we are always looking for God and Love."

-MAESTRO

Maestro starring Hershey Felder as the musical legend, Leonard Bernstein is now at 59E59 Theaters for a limited engagement through Sunday, October 16th. The book for Maestro is by Felder and the show enjoys exceptional direction by Joel Zwick. Maestro features music by Leonard Bernstein and others in a stunning performance that tells Bernstein's personal story along with the inspirations he received from other musicians and classical composers. Get your tickets now. This production is sure to be a sell-out.

Leonard Bernstein was born in 1918 in Lawrence, Massachusetts to a traditional Jewish family. When he was young, he received little encouragement from his father for his musical talents. But Bernstein's passion for music and remarkable abilities gained him entry to Harvard's prestigious music department. At the age of 25, he made his conducting debut on the stage of Carnegie Hall, a performance that would propel him to worldwide recognition. Conductor, composer, pianist, author, teacher, librettist and television star, Bernstein's genius knew no boundaries. Among his great compositions is the score for West Side Story.

Music takes center stage in the show with Felder playing a spectacular array of works on a grand piano. Yet, Maestro rounds out the story of Bernstein by providing an insightful, intimate view of his family life, marriage and his deep desire to be "true to himself."

Bravo to Hershey Felder for bringing Leonard Bernstein to life right before your eyes. Felder completely masters the role with his own extraordinary musical gifts and showmanship. He captivates the audience from the first moment he steps onstage to the curtain call. And Bernstein's wit and wisdom are wonderfully portrayed. Felder also slips seamlessly into other roles that include Bernstein's father, Samuel, conductor Dimitri Mitropoulos, and composer Aaron Copland.

The Creative Team has done a superb job of presenting Maestro at 59E59 Theaters with scenic design by Francois-Pierre Couture, lighting and projection design by Christopher Ash, sound design by Erik Carstensen. The Associate Producer is Trevor Hay. The Production Stage Manager is Rebecca Peters.

Maestro is a production like no other. There are few people who haven't been touched by the genius of Leonard Bernstein. Music lovers and many more will relish the opportunity to see this show.

Maestro is produced by The Town Hall with Samantha F. Voxakis and Karen Racanelli. The running time is 1 hour and 45 minutes with no intermission. The show will be performed through October 16th. 59E59 Theaters are located at 59 East 59th Street (between Park and Madison Avenues). Ticket range from $25 to $75 ($25-$49 for 59E59 Members). To purchase tickets, call Ticket Central at (212) 279-4200 or visit www.59e59.org.

Photo courtesy of Hershey Felder Presents

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