It felt so special to be treated to the amazing quality of the singing performances in "The Hollow" performance at Signature on July 23.

Let me start by praising the performers--oops, not possible, because they are not listed by role, but only listed as a corps. What a shame that I can only describe, without naming them, the singers who performed the two lead roles of Ichabod Crane and Katrina von Tassel. THey were both superb, especially Katrina. Her lovely voice carried this into the stratosphere--truly something to remember. Ichabod had a light comic touch and a very charming manner;I've never viewed Ichabod in such a light comedic fashion before. It was delightful and it leavened the darker tone present in the rest of the proceedings.

Overall, the music and singing were powerful, evocative and memorable. The story concerns the legendary Sleepy Hollow, and things get off to a sleepy start with a song about the Quietest Place on Earth. This was a weak beginning but it was all uphill from there. The pace quickly speeds up, as we meet the main characters and begin to understand their old-fashioned yet surprisingly accessible romantic, artistic and spiritual yearnings. But soon the rumblings of parochialism and intolerance are heard, and we know there is darkness within this seemingly bucolic place. Sure enough, this becomes a harshly enacted community drama in a similar vein to Spring Awakening.

Unlike Spring Awakening, however, with its punk rock infusions, the musical format here is somewhat limited to choral and traditional musical theater forms. The music is always charming and occasionally really soars. But I found myself wondering why the composer didn't include at least one dance number, something with a beat, maybe some Irish jig or something. IF musical theater is to survive it needs to kick up its heels sometimes.

Of course, Eric Schaeffer, director Matt Conner, composer and lyricist, and Hunter Foster, book, are all incredible talents and it is a privilage to experience their work.
I guess with this type of experimental format, one experiences a bit of inconvenience that is to be expected, but perhaps it hsould have been advertised to emphasize that point. We rushed to arrive early, and the show began nearly an hour later than advertised.
Don't get me wrong: This was a splendid musical reading and well worth the price. I really, really appreciate having these kinds of options available on the local scene. It would be nice if it had not coincided in scheduling with the DC Capital Fringe Festival--so much to do, so little time!

Report as inappropriate

• 0 Good To Know
• 0 I Like Your Writing
• 0 I Went And I Agree