BWW Reviews: Passions Erupt in THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY at The Fox Theatre

Based on the novel by Robert James Waller, that people seem to either love or loath, THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY would seem to be a story which relies very heavily on particular imagery conjured up in the readers' mind by the landscape the characters occupy. The film version did make a valiant effort to convey that, even if it had a number of shortcomings. But. that would seem to be a rather large hurdle to clear for a stage production, much less a musical. So, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I genuinely enjoyed this musical adaptation. Jason Robert Brown's music and lyrics (book by Marsha Norman) fit each character and moment like a glove, while dancing around different styles to reflect various moods and emotions. Plus, the story is compelling enough to translate to a wide audience, especially those who like their stories a bit sentimental and bittersweet. The current touring production onstage at The Fox Theatre is certainly well worthy of your time and attention, and you can see it through April 17th, 2016.

Set in 1965, the plot concerns Italian/American Francesca Johnson, who's living a quiet, unassuming, and unsatisfying life, married with children. By chance, her family is briefly out of town when a photographer for National Geographic named Robert Kincaid arrives in her county, with an assignment to take pictures of the lovely bridges that grace that particular area. It's clear that these are two people who are destined to meet, and that they genuinely connect with one another once they do. But, even though she's tempted by the promise of a different life, it's not a decision that Francesca can accept. Although her choice leaves her with a sense of regret that lingers, long after the photograph Robert took of her on one of those famed bridges has begun to fade with time.

Elizabeth Stanley handles the role of Francesca with considerable aplomb, delivering lovely soprano vocals, and delightfully playing off of scruffily handsome photographer Robert, brought to life by a very solid Andrew Samonsky. Samonsky is given the perfect number to introduce his particular perspective with "The World in a Frame", while Stanley lets us into her humdrum world with "To Build a Home". It's an interesting contrast that sets the stage for what becomes a mutual attraction and blossoming passion.

A fine supporting cast includes: Mary Callanan as Marge, who gets the chance to make an impression as well, with her hair in curlers and her voice wafting through a radio as the prospective lovers begin to "Get Closer"; Cullen R. Titmas as Bud; David Hess as Charlie; and John Campione (Michael) and Caitlin Houlahan (Carolyn) as Francesca's son and daughter, respectively.

Tyne Rafaeli directs the touring company (the production was originally helmed by Bartlett Sher), and does marvelous work, although this small story is sometimes dwarfed by The Fox's rather large stage. It does lend it a sense of thoughtfully lit grandeur, even if the venue takes away a sense of intimacy that would actually benefit the show in many ways. Danny Medford provides the movements for the cast, and Catherine Zuber takes on the period costuming. Michael Yeargen's scenic design is warm and inviting, and all the more enhanced by Donald Holder's lighting scheme.

THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY is a splendid little show that's filled with gorgeous melodies that span genres, while remaining true to the characters. Check it out at The Fox Theatre.

Photo credit: Matthew Murphy

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