*

Verdict for The Napoleon


Production

directed by Francesca Zambello

A much respected director and rightly so I haven't see such great production for awhile.

I urge my readers from Esquire Magazine ( Asia ) to see this production to broden their horizon.


Scenery/designer

by Michael Yeargan

There is breathtaking scenery and a very cleaver use of projects designed by Jan Hartley. The combination makes the entire show work. The drapes are beautiful and reminded me of Lautrec, the musical. (I hope this French Cousin survives this time!) While there was a lot of impressive scenery, the Cathedal, the garden scene was exceptional and made this viewer gasp in awe.


Lighting

by Rick Fisher

Astonishing! Even with the very bright light, the lighting made the production look good.


Costume

by Marie- Jeanne Lecca

The great costumes were like jewels in the crown.


Music & book

by Timothy Williams

The music's ability to transport the audience from one scene to another is good. However the key song does not match its climax.

Book and Lyrics

by Andrew Sabiston

One must wonder why Napolean was chosen of the subject of a musical. In addition to not being a particularly likeable individual, he is a mean, ambitious person bent on conquering the world. As he abandons his wife and brother for blatantly feeble seasons.Well maybe I stand corrected, we are still talking about 'nasty Nick' from Big Brother who remembers

what's her name???.


Singing/acting

Paul Baker/Uwe Kroger do remarkably well in holding the show together. Unfortunately the character they portray, Napoleon, is so very unpleasant that you don't feel sorry for them.
Anastasis Barzee, Napoleon's wife Josephine, is saddled with songs that do not do her voice justice. David Burt as Talleyrand, Nigel Richards as Napoleon's cousin Lucien,and
David Arneil as Foche act and sing well. Jody Crosier as Anton, however, gives a very impressive performance. I can see him doing these period characters well in his future career.


Dancing

choreographed by Demni Sayers.



Sound

by Martin Levan with Hendrick Maassen


www.NapoleonTheMusical.com


Professional Review