A musical about the First World War - odd concept but interesting. The first act was a bit weak, but the second was definitely worth staying for. It picked up the horror of the war, projecting the staggering losses above the stage, and noting the lack of result.
Great cast - most of whom were not familiar.
It was odd to hear some of the songs with their original war themed words, and remember them as the more light hearted versions sung by sororities and fraternities. Keith tells me many of the songs were even older than the first world war, but were music hall tunes with the words changed for the war. Evolution occurs in music as in everything.
A lot of new faces, Dennis and Hanrahan were the only recognisable "regulars". Many players from the Academy - Soulpepper's training program - which seemed appropriate for this show.
ReplyDeleteIt was well done, both fun and a reminder of how horrible "The War to End All Wars" was.
I think it could have benefited by showing more bitterness as the show progressed: more Cabaret-like winks at the fact that everything isn't beautiful.
However, the approach may be faithful to the original and letting Haig's words just stand there is horrifying enough! ( I just worry that Mr. Schultz hand of bland has descended again, after a season and a half of more interesting productions.)