BWW Reviews: ZORRO the Musical at Hale Centre Theatre is Spectacular

The U.S. premiere of Zorro the Musical at Hale Centre Theatre in West Valley is a spectacular success.

Zorro the Musical, with music by The Gipsy Kings and book and lyrics by Stephen Clark, presents the origin story of the hero Zorro as told by a band of gypsies he has befriended. The gypsies relate how a man named Diego put on the mask of Zorro at the behest of his childhood friend, Luisa, in order to defend his countrymen from his tyrannical brother, Ramon.

The Hale Centre Theatre production, directed by David Tinney, is amply worthy of the designation "U.S. premiere."

The stunts and fight choreography by Brad Schroeder are thrilling, and the illusions are breathtaking. A variety of stunning fire effects also enhance the spectacle.

Set designer Kacey Udy, who is the theatre’s technical director, especially excels at creating weathered sets that provide an authentic atmosphere for period shows (such as his design for last year’s regional premiere of A Tale of Two Cities). This set is no different and is automated in such a way that it morphs seamlessly from scene to scene.

As is to be expected at Hale Centre Theatre, the singing talent is superb. Leads Derek Smith (double cast with Casey Elliott) as Zorro, Megan Heaps (double cast with Jacquelyne Jones) as Luisa, and Paul Cartwright (double cast with Preston Yates) as Ramon all sing beautifully. An unexpected but welcome surprise is the strength of the ensemble members’ voices in their occasional solos.

A highlight of the cast is Victoria Greco (double cast with Rebecca Raboy) as Inez. A native of Panama, she ignites the stage with passion and authentic Latin flavor. Every aspect of her performance combines to create a realistic and empathetic character.

Although some elements of the show are reminiscent of other works such as The Scarlet Pimpernel, The Man of La Mancha, and The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Zorro is unique in the world of musical theatre thanks in large part to the score’s focus on flamenco music. The flamenco guitar and dancing in this production are entertaining and well-executed. Unfortunately, they sometimes bring the plot’s momentum to a halt rather than moving it forward as a traditional musical theatre score would do.

Zorro the Musical plays at Hale Centre Theatre in West Valley through April 11, 2012. Tickets are selling extremely fast but are still available. Call the box office at 801-984-9000 or visit www.halecentretheatre.org.

Photo Credit: Victoria Greco (Inez) and Derek Smith (Zorro)

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