Goldstar

• Rated 4.0
• Written on Sep 25 2009

This is a very interesting interpretation of one of the best musicals ever, done with a 360 seating arrangement and the action in the center. Having seen Big River in several theaters before, I wasn't sure how they could pull it off this way, but they did. I would say the biggest advantage is that is gives the show a much more intimate feeling.

I can't say this was the best production I've seen of Big River, but it is still an great one. Some of the actors were amazing and even those who didn't quite make that grade were still very good. The entire show was well cast and you feel that there are more cast members than there actually are.

Some of the directing choices seemed to gloss over some of the opportunities for poignant moments, but overall I thought the show was well put together and the 360 arrangement was used to it's fullest potential. (Although as a fan of Big River, I was bummed that they cut out one song - I, Huckleberry, Me - but I understand the reasons I suppose.)

This is one of my all time favorite shows and the Actor's Co-op did a great job of bringing it to life. I laughed a lot and was moved a lot - near the end of the show, I was holding back tears - that is the mark of a great show!

I took my friend who had never been to a musical before and he loved it - as he said "It wasn't what he expected a musical to be." And that's a good thing! :-) This is unlike any other musical you'll ever see and this is a really good production of it, so go ahead go see it - you won't regret it!

• Rated 4.0
• Written on Oct 12 2009

A delightful production with clever staging,extraordinary voices and good acting,esp. the two shisters. The theatre's innovative 360 arrangement created a marvelously intimate setting.

• Rated 3.0
• Written on Oct 05 2009

Wonderful show, beautifully directed by Richard Israel. Another success for Actor's Co-op.