With its current production, Music Theatre of Madison takes a bold step in capturing one of Broadway’s most nuanced love tales, Jason Robert Brown’s “The Bridges of Madison County.” However, this ambitious undertaking seems to falter slightly as the play’s vast emotional panorama struggles to fit within the confines of the Play Circle’s intimate space.
The Timeless Story
Set against the backdrop of 1965 Iowa, the story revolves around Francesca Johnson, an Italian war bride at a crossroads between staying true to her marital responsibilities and exploring new passions. Her encounter with Robert Kincaid, a roving National Geographic photographer, ignites a four-day affair that challenges her perceptions and priorities. Surrounded by a community that watches their every move, the pair must grapple with the consequences of their short yet profound connection.
Musical Missteps
Brown’s acclaimed score, lauded for its orchestrative and musical intricacy, deserves a setting that accommodates its vastness. Instead, the over-amplified sound and compact surroundings hinder the music’s capacity to breathe fully, creating a mismatch that muffles its intended impact. The production’s soundscape, which should shift seamlessly between the intimate and the grandiose, struggles to maintain that balance, leaving a longing narrative without its necessary leeway.
A Cast Called to Bravery
At the heart of the tale are Sarah and Kevin Blakeslee portraying Francesca and Robert. Their off-stage marital bond fuels their on-stage interactions, grounding the affair with credible chemistry. Kevin, with his vigorous baritone, oscillates between warmth and a volume that sometimes strains the intimacy. Sarah’s challenge lies in the varied vocal demands of Francesca’s role, which swings from tender lullabies to soaring operatic lines, often testing her range.
Supporting Strengths
In contrast, support from the ensemble brings a much-needed buoyancy. Cat Richmond’s ethereal singing and Micah Friedman’s robust vocal clarity remind audiences of the musical peaks that lie within this production. Additionally, Jen Ward Lennon and Bart Terrell invest their roles as the ever-watchful neighbors with resolute authenticity and humor, elevating the narrative beyond mere caricature.
Searching for Space
Under Meghan Randolph’s direction, the tension of the narrative is palpable, yet the execution remains caught between the grandeur it seeks and the space it occupies. The vast Iowan landscapes, alluded to through the music, beg for a stage expansive enough to honor their breadth. Despite a sincere approach, the production remains tethered to its confines, delivering cityscape whispers instead of countryside confessions.
An Unwavering Mission
Despite not completely fulfilling its sweeping promises, sparks of brilliance shine through — be it through Richmond’s serenely powerful performance or Friedman’s emphatic delivery. Such moments underscore the significance of Music Theatre of Madison’s endeavor, emphasizing that artistic risk can sometimes lead to uneven yet unforgettable experiences.
According to Isthmus, “The Bridges of Madison County” runs through Aug. 23, with remaining performances slated for Aug. 17, 21, and 22. Don’t miss out on this heartfelt journey at the Play Circle, where the intimate embraces the epic.
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