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Tri-State Theater

Let's discuss upcoming shows, secrets behind the scenes, things you never knew about the theater and why live theater is so darn entertaining.

Monday, March 23, 2009

"Alexander" Wraps Up Its Opening Weekend!

Whew! Sunday afternoon the cast and crew of Alexander, Who's Not Not Not Not Not Not Going to Move wrapped up the show's opening weekend - and we had a great crowd along for the ride!

One reason for that was a great turnout by many of the cast members from the recently-wrapped Charlotte's Web production.

And let me just say, it's always great to see how the members of the theatre community support each other's productions.

At any rate, the cast now gets to enjoy a few days off before gearing up for the final weekend of the show - the next show is Friday at 7:30 p.m. at the Jeslyn Theater in downtown Huntington.

Hope to see you there!

2 comments:

Stephen Vance said...

As the local reviewer, I'm sure you'll probably skip reviewing your own show, so I thought I shoot across a brief one in case Zach didn't.

I went to see Alexander on Sunday expecting a somewhat typical sedate matinee audience and walked into a crowd bubbling with enthusiasm. I learned that the cast and crew of Charlotte's Web had decided to come over and show their support for their sister show. The added excitement brought something that you only experience with live theatre.

The first thing I noticed was the relatively bare stage. A couple enormous stacks of boxes and a bed were the only set pieces for the opening scene. The scrim, colored lights, door signs, and minimal set pieces did a great job of assisting the story with out stealing from the kids.

This show, like Charlotte's Web, had a cast list of mostly new comers, and I think that's one of the great things about companies like First Stage. It give kids, regardless of experience, a chance to get on stage and do there thing.

I really didn't know what to expect, but with in just the first few minutes, the kids had the audience rolling in the aisles. I have never seen such a young group have such a strong sense of comedic timing. Nick played by Drew Goodall and Swoozie played by Kate Colclough had me laughing out loud every time they spoke, barked, or moved across stage.

I was also very impressed with the singing talents of the mother played by Hannah Stevenson, Anthony played by Justin Hesson, and Audrey played by Sarah Bryan.

The title role was played by Drew Edwards and he did a great job moving the show along and pulling the audience in to the story.

The entire ensemble had a great energy and each had moments where they shined.

Of course, one of the highlights of the show was First Stage Alumnus Travis McElroy. He played 5 different roles and was hilarious in each and every one. I really liked that both Alexander and Charlotte pulled in the Alumni, because with these exceptionally young casts it appeared these experienced actors brought both a passion and stability to the stage.

Overall, I expected a cute show, but I left smiling from this laugh-a-minute comedy. It was a very entertaining show, and its great to see all of these new faces growing on our local stages. Congrats Chuck on the show! and continue breaking legs over the next weekend.

Chuck Minsker said...

Stephen, much appreciated! I'll post this out on the main page for all to see - thanks!