Theatre Review - AIDA

Theatre Review

AIDA

Stage 1 Theatre - Newark, CA

Reviewed By = Mauricio Segura

     To kick off their 2012 season, Stage 1 Theatre Company is currently producing AIDA. Written by the same musical collaborators who brought the "Lion King" to life, Elton John and Tim Rice, AIDA is a timeless story of true forbidden love found within the turmoils of war in ancient Egypt.  

     As far as musicals go, you can't get any better than this "music-wise". On one hand you have the genius lyrics of Tim Rice, who has also penned unforgettable musicals such as Joseph and the Amazing technicolor Dreamcoat, Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita, and Beauty and the Beast, to name a few. Then you have Elton John, the phenomenal pianist who has  constantly brought chart topping hits to radio's worldwide for the past five decades.

     Not to take anything from Rice, but the music truly carries this production, because unfortunately, the storyline is rather weak on its own. It's at times predictable, at other times a little rushed, and then it leaves circumstances open for questioning. However, there are a few twist and turns thrown in that will make up for what it lacks, and with the great music, it's still very much entertaining.

     The sets are simple, yet adequate. They're neither too elaborate nor too plain to distract the audience. The lighting effects work very well in setting the mood for each scene, and the sound is well balanced. Tie it all together with the superb orchestra, lead by Ken Nadler, and you have a winning behind the scenes combination.

     As for the actual performance itself. You won't hear any sub par singing in this show. I was quite impressed with all of the vocal talent. But of coarse, there is one shining star. Matty Gregg, who plays Radames (the soon to be husband of Pharaoh's only daughter who falls in love with the one person his country forbids), steals the show. His stage presence, vocal abilities, and overall persona command the audiences attention. Even more impressive is the fact that Matty was a last minute replacement for the original lead. In just 12 days, he learned all of his lines, choreography, prompts, etc. That fact alone deserves a standing ovation.

     Ernestine Balisi, who plays the Numbian Princess AIDA, almost blew me out my seat when she first began singing. She has a beautiful and powerful voice. A true talent!

     Honorable mention to Andrew Taula on his portrayal of Radames' servant Mereb. His voice is smooth, his acting is flawless, he was a treat to watch. Honorable mention also goes to Paul Plain who plays Radames shady father Zoser, and Bruce Knopf for a very convincing Pharaoh.

     Lastly, Christi Wallace. A superb voice, a rock and roll voice with Broadway flair. She was great at dishing out the comedy, and equally as great bringing the tone down to dramatic levels. Kudos to Christi!

     There was one thing about this production which threw me off and caused me to deduct major points from my overall review. It was with the dance ensemble. Not the entire group, but about 4 of the females. In each dance scene, these same four women seemed as if they were just going through the motions. There was no feeling in what they were doing unlike the others. Not only that, but they're facial expressions didn't change. Whether the scene called for sadness, laughter, or fear, they kept the same deer caught in headlights look. It became very distracting, and I bring it up knowing that I wasn't the only one who noticed. I hope this will be addressed and corrected for future performances.

     Overall, AIDA will make a great night out at the theater. Its currently paying through July 28th, so you only have a handful of performances to choose from. Set a date, and enjoy a great evening over at Stage 1! Cheers!

Rating = 3 1/2 out of 5 Golden Bridges

Title = AIDA
Genre = Musical

Theater/City = Stage 1 - Newark Memorial HS
                          39375 Cedar Blvd

                          Newark, CA

Contact Phone = (510) 791-0287

Production Dates = Now through July 28, 2012

Ticket Prices = $10 - $22 

Click Here For More Info & Tickets - - - > http://www.stage1theatre.org/Stage_1_Theatre/AIDA_Tickets.html