To my surprise, I actually enjoyed the production of Big River—the musical adaptation of Mark Twain's Adventures of Huckleberry Finn that I just saw at the Westchester Broadway dinner theater—more than the last Broadway revival of the show in 2003. For one thing, the cast is about twice as big, and director John J. Fanelli and choreographer Dorina Di Lullo have given the slaves a greater visual and aural presence, which adds weight to points Twain is making. (And the rhythmic movement and dancing by the slaves is carried off well; Jimmy Tate deserves special mention as a dancer and as the company's tap coach.) This production—well worth seeing—reminds us of past racial injustices in a very human and heartfelt way. Anthony Malchar makes a most agreeable and likeable Huck Finn; he's right on the money, and he's got presence. Augie Abatecola and Joey Sanzaro carry of their supporting character roles with flair. And FaTye gives a dignified, understated (at times too understated) performance as Jim. Roger Miller's songs fit the story well. William Hauptman's rather episodic book is sometimes too leisurely-paced for my tastes, but the story is told clearly and with honesty. I like some of the visual effects, too—the mist over the river, for example. And harmonica and guitar are used wisely to suggest a world far from Broadway. Todd Rich, as Tom Sawyer, has the right look, but he over-acted, trying too hard. And I was sorry that Sam Sultan couldn't make more of the role of Mark Twain. But there's much to appreciate in this big, family-friendly show.
Big River runs through Feb. 26.
(Pictured: Anthony Malchar & Fatye Francis; Photo by Jordan Matter)
Chip Deffaa
Cabaret Scenes
February 3, 2012
www.cabaretscenes.org
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