Barnum - 7 stars out of 10
Michael Crawford puts on a clinic with his performance in "Barnum". And we're not just talking about singing and acting - you have to include dancing, gymnastics, juggling, and tightrope walking. This show is filmed during a live performance and would not be the same any other way. The circus scenes are impressive because of the energy that fills the auditorium, and filming the circus stunts on a soundstage simply would not have the same effect. The show has a festive atmosphere as Barnum oftedn breaks the fourth wall and make the audience a part of the story, as if they were actually under the big tent watching the circus. The music is exciting at first but becomes monotonous after a while. Certain songs are heartfelt while some are too cheesy ("One brick at a time, one single solitary brick) and after 90 minutes, they all start to sound the same. The story culminates with a show-stopping ending that will make you want to join the circus. "Barnum" is far from my favorite musical but this rendition is the best portrayal that this musical will ever see. Michael Crawford. Wow.
No comments:
Post a Comment