bex77

GO SEE THE BALTIMORE WALTZ?!

Forgive me while I gush...

We have an incredible theater company! I hope you knew that already. I knew, but it was driven home in a whole new way last night at fabulous opening night for "The Baltimore Waltz." They crossed new frontiers in directing, acting, in projection, in integrating music and sound, in lighting, in costumes and props and show-targeted concessions! Try the popcorn! The program is a glorious purple! There was a wonderful, responsive audience - I adore seeing Theatre@First's alums and new faces. This show came together on short notice when a tragedy robbed us of the director of another show, had a lot of challenges, but that makes the magic all the more amazing!! And I managed to get three great photos!

There are several items that make this show different - Andy Hicks does a masterful job on the projector with images that enhance the story and timing as he snaps them up and down at the perfect pace to let you take them in, enhance the lines and keep the scene rolling. Kay Coughlin's festive lighting is also very special. I adored the way it made me think of Paris. The Ensemble of three new actors did an incredible job of evoking a time and a place- Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin and Baltimore! They pose and handle a wide range of props and costumes and roles. The silhouette work is a stunning combo of lighting, directing and acting genius!

Bridgid Battell and John Olson were stunning in the lead roles, pushing and pulling the audiences through Europe and a broad range of emotions with a flare I appreciated on so many levels.

Finally, I must single out James Scheffler's versatility as an actor. He plays seemingly dozens of roles - changing costumes, accents and mannerisms - making me believe he is someone different in each one - serious, sexy, silly and stupendous! It is such a treat to watch!!

I hope to see you at the theater soon!

Curtain Call