Photo courtesy of Chromolume Theatre at the Attic
What happens when we put an extremely talented writer and composer together with four equally talented singers/performers? You get, of course, a night of exhilarating live musical theatre.
The show is “Songs for a New World.” The composer/lyricist/playwright is the wonderful Jason Robert Brown (‘The Last 5 Years’, ’13’, ‘Parade’ and ‘Bridges of Madison County’). I’ve seen every one of his plays, several more than once, and have loved every single one of them.
“Songs For A New World,” playing at the Chromolume Theatre at the Attic, is, according to Brown, a play about “one moment.” It’s about hitting the wall and having to make a choice: to take a stand or turn around and go back. The play is entirely sung and the score blends elements of pop, gospel, jazz, and thanks to this amazing cast, beautiful singing infused with intense emotion that bring Brown’s message alive.
The diverse cast, including Teresa Tracy (Woman 2) and Matt Mancuso (Man 2), are excellent, but I have to say, there are two stand outs that absolutely blew me away. They are Kenny Gary (Man 1) and Samantha Lawrence (Woman 1). Their voices, as well as their acting and their ability to command the stage, are so powerful, that it took everything for me not to jump out of my seat and yell, “BRAVO!” after each of their numbers.
If you are a lover of musical theatre or just “good theatre” then make it a point to see this show.
The Chromolume Theatre, which has reopened after a five year hiatus, is now located at 5429 West Washington, Los Angeles 90016. The show, beautifully directed by James Esposito, opened on Friday September 9th 2016. It runs Friday and Saturday 8pm, Sunday at 7:00p.m and closes on September 25th. Purchase tickets here or call 323-205-1617. Tickets are $30.00 and worth every penny.
Thank you for this great review! We are happy you enjoyed our production.