Brigadoon Magically Comes Alive at GCT
February 19, 2009
By TOM PITTS
Special to the Index-Journal
Greenwood, SC - For "Brigadoon," the gifted duo of Lerner and Loewe, who were later responsible for "my Fair Lady," "Camelot" and "Gigi," turned to the story of a quaint Scottish hamlet that appears in our time and space for only one day every 100 years (because of a magic spell).
| Greenwood Community Theatre presents "Brigadoon" 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday February 20, 21 with 2 p.m. matinees Saturday and Sunday February 21 and 22. The show is a second weekend with 8 p.m. performances Friday and Saturday February 27, 28 and with 2 p.m. matinees Saturday Sunday and Sunday February 28 and March 1. |
| "Brigadoon," invisible and unchanged from 200 years in the past, rises out of the mists of the moors and is accidently discovered by two modern New Yorkers who stumble into the past. It is possible for an outsider to join the townsfolk in their world, but no citizen may leave Brigadoon or it will cause the town to be lost forever.
The plot line involves the romance between one of the sophisticated, modern outsiders, Tommy, played by Randy Walenceus and the lovely lass, native of Brigadoon, Fiona played by Kara Funke.
The essential dilemma unravels to pose the question, "What would you sacrifice to be with the one you love?" "Would you give up your modern life, dress in plaid and listen to bagpipes?" Let me get back to you on that last one.
So what could be so alluring about Brigadoon?
My immediate answer would be - Funke. As Fiona, she opens her mouth to sing as in her opening song, "Waiting for My Dearie," and pure beauty pours out. She has the voice of an angel, and a smile that lights up the entire theatre. She along is worth the minor effort and expense to see this production.
Beside Walenseus ably singing the male lead, and Todd Philcox wisecracking his supporting role, the other major characters also shine. Brandon Williams is fantastic as Charlie, and he is mirrored by Samantha Alexander as Jean.
For comic relief, Tracie Luguire clearly enjoys her saucy, sassy turn as Meg.
GCT takes the "Brigadoon" text, music and lyrics and offers an evening of lovely voices singing well-crafted songs, adding the bonus of fluid choreography. Dance has always been an integral part of the American musical, and this GCT production does not skimp on the footwork, featuring full ensemble dance routines. Stage manager Sharon Grooms keeps the people and scenery flowing smoothly.
Additional credit naturally goes to the direction and choreography of Greenwood treasure, Bess Park. Chuck Neufeld contributes mightily as conductor and music director.
So, perhaps you have seen previous productions of "Brigadoon," and perhaps you are familiar with the Hollywood treatment, you have not seen the GCT version presented by the effort and skill of your neighbors and friends. Escape for a couple of hours in the magic of "Brigadoon."
The town of Brigadoon appears only once a century, but for us the musical appears in the friendly confines of the Greenwood Community Theatre on Main Street.
For tickets or information, call (864) 229-5704, email tgct@greenwood.net, or visit http://www.greenwoodcommunitytheatre.com.
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