Forgettable 'Big' does not translate to stage
WEST VALLEY CITY — They did the best they could with what they had to work with.
That was my thought after seeing Thursday night's production of "Big: The Musical" at Hale Centre Theatre. It's just not great material, proving that what makes a good movie doesn't always translate to the stage.
The show is filled with unnatural dialogue and forgettable songs. I was surprised to the the playbill credit the music to Stephen Flaherty ("Once on This Island," "Ragtime") — a shame since his talents exceed anything heard Thursday night. Rather David Shire, best known for working on "Baby," another original musical with a brief Broadway run, did the music.
Based on the '80s movie starring Tom Hanks, the musical ran on Broadway for less than six months but, surprisingly, walked away with a few Tony nominations.
Hale, and director John J. Sweeney, worked hard to turn the show into something — some of their additions worked, others did not.
The FAO Schwarz scene worked. The oversize piano was great; everyone was captivated. Bravo to David T. Glaittli (Mr. MacMillan) and J.C. Ernst (big Josh) for making the scene, which must be quite a workout for the men, lots of fun to watch. And bravo to Kacey Udy's set and Jennifer Stapley's numerous props.
The carnival scene mostly worked. The look and feel of the carnival was great, and the bumper cars were a fun addition. However, they should have been removed well before the dialogue started. None of us heard a word being said as the main character, at that time, was the noise and commotion of unnecessary set pieces.
The ball-throwing scene absolutely does not work. Josh and the boys are playing basketball, then start throwing the ball to one another. With Hale's arena stage, that puts the front row right in the line of fire. Yes, for the most part, it's under control — but flying objects are hard to control. I would hate to see an errant ball hit an unsuspecting patron.
Tamara Clayton's costumes are to be commended. Filled with loads of peach and teal, off-the-shoulder sweatshirts, and stirrup pants, her costumes were '80s perfection and were enough to make me thrilled that fashion era is over. As much as Hale spends on its sets, I'd like to see them throw a little more cash to the wig department. Hale's intimate setting doesn't allow for cheap wigs — they stood out like a sore thumb.
Recent comments
Hale Centre provides a place like no other for COMMUNITY actors.…
Not an Actor | Aug. 8, 2008 at 9:19 p.m.
I'm an adult. I saw it and I liked it. It worked for me!
Mc | Aug. 6, 2008 at 1:58 p.m.
"you need to look at it as if you were a kid and see the magic...…
yes, but... | Aug. 6, 2008 at 1:27 p.m.
