June WishList: Part 2

FLOYD COLLINS

BoHo Theatre 

In 1925, while chasing a dream of fame and fortune by turning a Kentucky cave into a tourist attraction, Floyd Collins himself became the attraction when he got trapped underground. Alone but for sporadic contact with the outside world, Floyd fought for his sanity and ultimately his life as the rescue effort above exploded into the first genuine media circus. Reporters and gawkers from across the country descended on the property, fueling the hysteria and manipulating the nation into holding its collective breath. This haunting musical — one of the most acclaimed in recent years — tells the transcendent tale of a true American dreamer.

BoHo’s production of Floyd Collins explores freedom across multiple realms, from Floyd’s quest for financial freedom that leads him into the cave, to the literal need to escape from a claustrophobic cave-in, and finally to the emotional and spiritual freedom Floyd discovers when the fear and isolation give way to inner reflection. At the heart of this story is the contrast between the cynicism in the media whirlwind above ground and the real emotions and family dynamic between Floyd and his family. In an age of constant news bombardment and media spin, Floyd Collins is a reminder of what truly matters when the rest of the world disappears.

Floyd Collins is a great musical that I have never had the opportunity to see. Which is understandable considering the difficulty surrounding the production & the fact that the role of Floyd Collins is a crazy difficult task to conquer. The story of Floyd Collins is fascinating & one that needs to be remembered. There is a timeless element to this story (it is the original 127 Hours, after all). Plus, the music is amazing. Adam Guettel is a musical poet who crafts the most haunting & stunning moods & melodies. He is best known for Light in the Piazza, which won 2 Tony Awards in 1995 (Best Original Score & Best Orchestrations). He also wrote Myths & Hymns, an innovative & quiet musical that is too beautiful for words. 

THE MARVIN GAYE STORY:

Don't Talk About My Father, Because God Is My Friend

Black Ensemble Theatre 

Marvin Gaye’s life was plagued with depression and drug addiction and ended in tragedy on April 1, 1984 when he was shot and killed by his own father. The Marvin Gaye Story will reveal his struggles while also honoring his vast contributions to the music industry and the world. To many, Marvin Gaye represents the ability to face the worst of life’s adversities and still accomplish great success. This Black Ensemble Theater production will embrace this sentiment and celebrate a legacy of beautiful music that will last forever.

I’m a sucker for dramaturgically-based pieces; I love any piece of theatre that derives from a true-life story, especially if it‘s a musical. This specific story has all the makings of a great musical…a complicated, dark story sprinkled with elements of hope with an infusion of quality music. I have heard & read nothing but great things regarding this production (and the Black Ensemble Theatre), so I’m sure this is a stunning production. 

DANCING QUEEN 

Riverfront Theatre 

Travel back in time to the 1970’s and celebrate the music that made those days memorable. The audience will enjoy the chart toppers from the pop group phenomenon ABBA, as well as a dazzling compilation of highlights from the iconic film Saturday Night Fever. This glittering, polyester-clad production is guaranteed to have everyone dancing, singing and swinging in the aisles.

I LOVE ABBA 

and support any excuse to have their songs performed onstage. 

In 2006, I saw the tribute concert ABBA MANIA in London’s East End & it was perfect. In 2007, I saw the national tour of Mamma Mia! at the Hotel DuPont in Wilmington, DE & it was equally awesome (and the last musical I ever saw with my dad). Both productions had very clear (though dissimilar) points-of-view in regards to their application of ABBA’s songs to the stage: ABBA MANIA’s goal was to recreate an actual concert with diligent authenticity; MAMMA MIA used ABBA’s built a story around the songs like the creation of a constellation from stars. I am curious about Dancing Queen’s production perspective…the title & promo graphics indicate an emphasis on dance, which would be a great emphasis to apply. But the whole highlights from the iconic film Saturday Night Fever element seems forced, completely random, & out-of-place. I am also curious about this Riverfront Theatre & its’ 70-foot tall, 22,000 square foot temperature-controlled tent.