The Bridges of Madison County
March 15-20, 2016 at The Schuster - One of the most romantic stories ever written.
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The Bridges of Madison County
REVIEW: THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY
by Mike Woody
I’m not really sure which is more beautiful, the poetic music or the titillating love story contained within The Bridges of Madison County: The Broadway Musical as they pull at the heart strings with reckless abandon. Both elements combine to form a landscape of which its glorious majesty can’t be captured in a photograph, or even a written review, but must be seen for oneself. Anyone who enjoys a dramatic love story (some men need not apply) does not want to miss The Bridges of Madison County as it will leave you breathless, and teary eyed.
The year was 1992 when the book The Bridges of Madison County, by Robert James Waller, was released and everyone had to read it. Its popularity was equivalent to the modern day 50 Shades of Grey (boy, how things have changed), as everyone was reading it. Ironically, both books were also turned into movies. Flash forward more than twenty years (has it really been that long?) and Bridges is now a musical, with some changes in the story but its essence remains the same.
We first meet Francesca (Elizabeth Stanley), a bored, Italian housewife living in the flatlands of Iowa. A life on the farm where her days consist of doing laundry and cooking are not what she had envisioned for herself. When her family travels to be a part of the Indiana State Fair, Francesca stays behind and is exposed to a forbidden road of romance when a stranger appears. The stranger is Robert (Andrew Samonsky) a photographer on a journey for pictures of all the area’s covered bridges, and ends up exposing hidden desires within himself and Francesca.
While I’ve never been skilled in the Science’s, it doesn’t take a chemist to know there were some combustible elements within Francesca and Robert just waiting to erupt in an explosion of love. The question wasn’t will they/ won’t they? But when and what will the consequences be? Stanley and Samonsky share a strong chemistry together that’s evident as soon as he takes the stage, from a seat in the audience. Every expression, from the joys of seduction to the pains of betrayal, Stanly portrays perfectly as Francesca. Her vocals, with a hint of an Irish accent and operatic in tone are as stunning as her physical performance. Much of the stories weight comes from the inner moralistic voyage that she goes upon, and Stanley carries it with ease. Her perfection is matched by Samonsky, who thrills the women when his shirts off, but his whole performance is as chiseled as his chest. A bit hesitant at first, he captures Robert’s early nervousness before the slow burn of the relationship turns into a sizzle. Though he carries a camera, the greatest instrument used is his voice, which paints a picture better than any print could portray. As a testament to their performances, they make you forget Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood, no small feat, who plays the roles in the film.
A real highpoint of the production, other than when the lovebirds kiss and ummm, go upstairs, is the moment of decision for Francesca. Will she follow her heart towards the forbidden love or continue her mundane life for the sake of her family? The tension is strong. To run away with Robert is so wrong, yet also seems right, all at the same time. We feel Francesca’s torment and are brought to the edge of our seats as the moment of no turning back grows near…unless you have read the book or seen the movie, then you probably know, regardless of any prior knowledge its theatrical drama in its finest form.
One reason that we care so much about Francesca’s decision is the emotional investment we put into her family due to their endearing performances. We don’t want to see them get hurt. Her husband, Bud (Cullen R. Titmas), may be a little rough around the edges but has a good heart. A blue ribbon should be awarded to Caitlin Houlahan who shows all the angst of a nervous teen as the daughter, Carolyn, and the rebellious Michael (John Campione) doesn’t miss a beat as head-strong older brother. Special mention must also be given to the nosy neighbor, Marge (Mary Callanan), who becomes a fan favorite with her comic relief. Plus, in a show so highly regarded for its music (rightfully so), Marge’s husband, Charlie (David Hess) leads one of the strongest most stirring vocals with the bluesy-country tune ‘When I’m Gone.’
Though not your typical musical, Bridges lacks any big dance numbers or lavish costumes, but Francesca’s red dress is enough for these eyes to handle. It’s a heart wrenching tale with an extravaganza of emotions. Bridges of Madison County continues at the Schuster Center through March 20.
March 15-20, 2016 at The Schuster - One of the most romantic stories ever written, this irresistible, two time Tony Award-winning Broadway musical first captured the nation’s attention as a best-selling novel. This stunning new production features gorgeous, soulful music by Tony Award-winning composer Jason Robert Brown (Parade, The Last Five Years) that the Daily News hails as “one of Broadway’s best scores in the last decade.” With a book by Pulitzer Prize winner Marsha Norman (The Secret Garden, The Color Purple) and direction by Tony winner Bartlett Sher (South Pacific, The Light in the Piazza), THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY is the unforgettable story of two people caught between decision and desire, as a chance encounter becomes a second chance at so much more.
AGE RECOMMENDATION:
We program the series for adults and young people age 13 and older. Our policy is children under the age of 6 will not be permitted. Occasionally a particular production will include content that is generally not suitable for those under the age of 17. For the consideration of all patrons, children on laps and/or babes in arms are not permitted at Victoria Theatre Association Broadway presentations.
Photos: The Bridges of Madison County
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The Schuster Center
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