A Page Series Event
Page Theatre, Saint Mary's University
Winona, MN
dir: Warren Nelson
band director: Don Pavel
vocal director: Ed Willett
cast: Warren Nelson, Don Pavel, Phillip Anich, Cal Aultman, Severin Behnen, Bruce Bowers, Bruce Burnside, Betty Ferris, Jack Gunderson, Sally Kessler, Scott Kuester, Cheryl Leah, Tom Mitchell, Rowan Nelson-Ferris, Ed Willett
A history of Minnesota in song and sketches.
I really enjoyed the music and vocals in this production. Both were quite strong and very good. The history was evidently thoroughly researched, and I certainly learned a thing or two during the performance.
And while I was watching it, I thought to myself, "I'm enjoying this...why?" And really it was only because of the music and vocals. The actual writing of the piece was weak, and the lyrics of the songs seemed strained much of the time.
I give Mr. Nelson credit for doing a fine job and for his persistence in getting this show performed. However, a "fine" job is not the same as a "great" job, and this is the kind of production that will forever be relegated to touring schools in Minnesota (of course the subject matter alone will prevent it from having much of a life). There's certainly nothing wrong with touring schools, but I get the sense that this gentleman is doing his best, which just isn't on par with most professionals.
I am reminded of my college days, where a bunch of us sat on stools on the stage, our scripts and scores in front of us on music stands, and we "performed" an original musical work by a fellow college student. This show had much that same feel (they all sat on stools with their music on stands in front of them), except that all involved are well past their college days.
I'm glad I went, I would consider seeing it again with my older children, I might even buy a CD of the music if one existed, but I can't recommend that you rush out to see it (though if it's in your town and you're looking for a night out, certainly it's worth the time).
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