A Lulu of a Production

I just got back from seeing Lulu at the Lyric Opera, and oh my god, that was one of the best things they have ever done. It really sucks that this was the final performance because I would be singing its praises from the rooftops and encouraging all theatre and music fans to go see it. It was truly a music drama with a compelling story, gorgeous sets, a great concept (the whole thing was done as a movie) and of course the music. Hopefully it won't take another 21 years before they do it again.

Last Sunday was Porgy & Bess which was not quite so thrilling. It was good, and everyone did a good job, but I don't think it will ever be one of my favorites. It actually wasn't as jazzy as I feared, the music really was traditional opera-style with subtle jazz influence, but that also hindered some of the songs, particularly Summertime. I'm so used to Fantasia Berrino's performance, it's hard to hear it done any other way, and since that's the opening song it kind of gets the whole show off on an unsteady foot.

So, that's it, just a quick update since I know it's been awhile and I've been very busy. Thursday is Sarah Brightman, let's just hope the weather doesn't pose a problem, and then Saturday is Mame at Drury Lane, and the following Saturday is Grey Gardens at Northlight, and then it's a nice extended break with a trip to Disneyland before the madness starts again.