I’ve been visiting friends in Pittsburgh, and last night I had the opportunity to see Front Porch Theatricals’ production of Sunday in the Park with George at the New Hazlett Center for Performing Arts.
The New Hazlett doesn’t have the fly space to make set pieces entirely disappear like in the original production of this classic musical. The theatre also didn’t have the high-resolution projections used for technical wizardry in the more recent Broadway revival. However, director Rob James came up with some creative solutions to perform theatrical magic with the resources he had available.
Much of the credit probably belongs to scenic designer Johnmichael Bohach. In his versatile set, the tree frequently alluded to in the first act becomes part of the 20th-century art installation in the second before transforming back into a tree, all with help from an illuminating lighting design provided by Forrest Trimble. The costumes designed by Michelle Nowakowski elegantly evoke both the 1880s and the 1980s without feeling forced. (This was a welcome change from the Broadway revival which telegraphed the 1980s rather than portraying them authentically.)
All in all, I actually preferred this production to the Broadway revival with all its technical marvels. Saige Smith found a way to play Dot with charm and originality, but without constantly reminding us of Bernadette Peters, who not only originated the role but made it almost fully her own. Aaron Galligan-Stierle gave a colorful performance as George, making the artist fascinating to watch even as he makes questionable choices.
Stephen Sondheim deservedly receives credit for his magnificent music and lyrics in the piece, but James Lapine’s book is also a model for dialogue that’s both deeply emotional and surprisingly economical. Just a few lines can make a character come to life when played by a skilled actor, as Ben Nadler showed with the small role of Dennis, and Adelyne Anderson showed with the even smaller role of Elaine.
This production is running until August 24th. Many performances are selling out, so see it if you can. It’s a reminder that some of the best theatre in America is being done far outside of New York City.
