Review: THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME at Athens Theatre
In the world of theatre, there are some shows that simply resonate on a different level. In my experience, this happens when the perfect cast comes together with visionary creatives at the perfect moment in time. And when these puzzle pieces all snap into place, it delivers a performance that just feels different, one that makes the audience feel like they are lucky to be in that moment together. If you have experienced this before, you know, it is truly magical. Typically, this has been, for me, a feeling primarily reserved for popular, highly acclaimed shows, usually on Broadway (but not always). On Thursday night – I experienced that same rush, those same chills, and that same rare feeling sitting in the audience for the first time at the historic Athens Theatre in Deland, Florida – witnessing their latest production of THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME. As I sat there, I forgot that the amazingly talented cast were all volunteers – brought together by their love for the art and a passion for performance – and reveled as they delivered a stunning piece of musical theatre that was truly wonderous to behold.
The Bell is Tolling at the Athens Theatre With THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME
For nearly two centuries, Victor Hugo's novel, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, has captured the imaginations of readers all over the globe. Set in one of the most recognizable buildings ever created, the story follows the trials and tribulations of the outcast bell ringer, Quasimodo, as he navigates through a world of colorful characters filled with lust, deceit, and revenge.
BWW Review: CABARET Fits Theater West End's Vintage Vibe Like a Fishnet Stocking
CABARET and Theater West End are a match made in the heavens of art direction, so much so that it’s nearly a wonder they hadn’t staged it here til now. The plexiglass partitions even hint at the giant mirror that faced this show’s earliest audiences on Broadway — I caught reflections from performers and patrons on several occasions (including my own) and smiled in appreciation of the unintended nod.
BWW Review: Theatre UCF's YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN Shatters Lofty Expectations
Last week, I wrote an article looking at why Central Florida's collegiate theatre programs, and in particular Theatre UCF, consistently produce content at or above the level of local professional theatres. The next night I went to see UCF's production of Mel Brooks' YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN, the musical adaptation of one my favorite films. So, needless to say, as I walked into the theater, my expectations were already exceptionally high. Fortunately for me, and everyone else at the sold-out performance, this incredibly talented cast not only met those expectations, but shattered them.