Paradise Square Reviews

from San Francisco, California

OVERLOOKS AND MAKES A SERIOUS ISSUE TRITE

Of course the singing and the dancing were quite lovely, however the acting was not believable at all. Not to mention that the play was ultimately about Stephen Foster, who became the center of the play despite the overtures of the racist content of his songs. Although tensions were felt, there was very little emphasis and empathy for the African Americans that had to leave dangerous conditions of the south. There was very little mention of the trauma of slavery and not so much about the Irish either. Also, Stephen Foster didn't come out as controversial; he came out as a sympathetic character, a martyr. This is disturbing given the fact that the play consistently alluded to the appropriation of people's stories and racism. I'd be more interested to have an African American be the center of the story-one whose story we don't know about because his/her story was appropriated by those like Stephen Foster.

J.L. Kincaid from Mill Valley, California

PARADISE SQUARE FLOUNDERS

Berkeley Reps opening night of previews of Paradise Square revealed a visual dearth of color or excitement. The black stage with industrial black sets provided a dreary visual backdrop for characters who similarly were clothed in shades of brown making for a visual boredom punctuated by individual dances and songs but a lack of compelling interest in the storyline in this much too long slog. The first act on Thursday ran for 1 3/4 hours. How much can an audience take? There was no forward momentum in whatever story lies buried in the script. The theater itself has very close seating with knees right up against the seat in front, making for uncomfortable seating for such a long period. The show badly needs color and a set that has more than a revolving black contraption in its center. Individual dance and vocal skill was displayed amidst nondescript play. A very dull process all around. Hasn't anyone seen The Lion King? Color works wonders. This one isn't going to Broadway like this.

Kathleen from New York

BROADWAY

Saw it on Broadway preview opens tonight. Very disappointed. Music loud actors shouting. No songs w melodies. Reminded me of Six another shooting musical. I have not seen a good original musical since The Band’s Visit.

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