Jewish Post, Indianapolis, Marion County, 23 March 1994 — Page 4

Critic's Corner New music adorns Dickens' Tale'

By CHARLES EPSTEIN What a thrilling night to participate in when the world premiere of the music for Broadway-bound "A Tale Of Two Cities" opened at the

Circle Theatre. In a plush atmosphere this lush musical had the audience standing and applauding with enormous enthusiasm at the end of the finale. The cheers were well earned. This concert "style" presentation was not the usual

people sitting on stools singing their wares. This was fully staged with participants entering and exiting the wings. There were no period costumes as "A Tale" takes place in the late 1700's in Paris and London. There were no set pieces or props. There were many simple lighting effects that helped. But it was the people who spoke and sang who just enthralled. Alex Santoriello and his staff truly made this a spectacular evening. Santoriello wore many hats for this auspicious production. As executive producer he had his hands full for the organization of such a project and performance would give an ordinary man terrific headaches. But to give fantastic credit where it is due, Santoriello also expertly di-

rected the presentation. He did this under a handicap also because he was on stage portraying one of the main characters, Sydney Carton, the man Ronald Colman played in the film. Through his tremendous talents this ambitious project shows just what can be done if you have the energy, fortitude, and skill. The success of "A Tale of Two Cities" was no fluke. It was well merited through hard work. As members of the audience, we were blessed with hearing brilliant voices, from the important leads down to the impressive chorus of Fanfare! the singing Ambassadors of Indianapolis. The Circle stage contained many luminaries from Broadway. Tony Award winners and nominees joined with local talents such

as Priscilla Lindsay who lent her talents to a short dialogue scene. She played opposite that wonderful character/ singer Leo Burmester. Ann Crumb, Charles Goff, James Judy, Norman Large, Michael Maguire, J. Mark McVey and Robert Ousley have thrilled audiences across the nation and now were on one stage exhibiting their talents for an appreciative Santoriello. Special thanks must go to Donna Kane, whose portrayal of Lucie was politely overwhelming. All these fantastic voices joined Santoriello's, whose singing matched them perfectly. Holding the numbers together through narration was the notable theatrical giant Richard Kiley, whose dulcet tones reverberated through-

out the hall. His presence and stature added credibility to the project. Besides, it was wonderful seeing this man in person again. Behind these glorious voices was a full orchestra under the baton of orchestrator Robert Krogstad. The music, lyrics and narration was written by Jill Santoriello, Alex's younger sister. Ty Johnson did the lighting and coordinated the production. IF, if things go as planned we can look forward to a complete production of "A Tale of Two Cities" presented this summer at the Civic Theatre. With costumes, sets, props, and makeup this presentation will be another huge treat for the city of Indianapolis and something to be proud of.

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‘Wishing you a happy, healthy (Passover from ad of us at Lazarus.

LAZARUS

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