Grey Gardens
Walter Kerr Theatre
Sunday March 18, 2007 – 3:00PM
I did not know much about this musical when going into it. I had read and heard a lot about this show, and more importantly Ms. Ebersole’s performance, so I decided to see what it was all about. I am really glad that I did. I have been trying to catch up on the many shows I have not seen, and all of the different genres I had never experienced. It has been a tiring (and expensive) journey but I have thoroughly enjoyed every moment so far. Even in the shows I may not be crazy about, I have found something to connect too. I was secretly afraid that this would be the show that stopped my success. I was really wrong. It was the type of show I needed to feel like I have been “spreading my wings”. It was a musical, yes, but I don’t think I can compare it to the other ones I have seen. The material and base of the show were very unique and very well executed.
Based off the mid 1970’s documentary about eccentric socialites Edie & Edith Beale, this play is placed in two different eras. The first act (other than Prologue) takes place in 1941 and Act two in 1973. This transition was pulled off seamlessly. The thing I was most afraid of was how the material would translate into song, but it worked nicely. I guess part of it was a little easy since the Beale’s were known for their singing, so some of the songs were the characters actually singing it as part of the show. My only personal complaint was that the show was sung mostly in a high soprano note, which made some of the lyrics hard to understand, but that would be a very minor complaint at best.
From the moment I sat down (Left Mezz Row A – great seats), I began to appreciate the show. Similar to what I liked about Tarzan, the stage was already set, so it helped put you in the right mind frame. For GG, you looked at the exterior of the “mansion”, complete with the vines growing up the side of the stage. Also, they played bird chirping/nature music lightly in the background, to help you feel that you were outside the house. These are the little details that really get me into the show. When the show began, it kept my attention the entire time. In the first act, the material can be related to by mostly anyone (mother/daughter relationships, crazy families, etc.). The sets and costumes set the story nicely. In the second act, I was just mesmerized by the acting of Ebersole/Wilson along with the actual story taking place. My favorite scene would have to be early into the second act when the “ghosts” of the past characters are floating about for brief moments. It was haunting.
There was no weak link in the cast. Ms. Christine Ebersole is a force to be reckoned with. I had heard rambling about her stage presence and talent, but I was blown away. They should not even bother nominating anyone else for the Tony. I don’t even think I can put into words how incredible her performance was. This is by no means my favorite show of all time, even though it does have a high ranking, but I will rate her performance as the best I have ever seen live. Mary Louise Wilson pulled off the fine line between vulnerable old woman and determined strong willed woman in her performance of Older Edith. She tugged at your heart strings out of pity as well as out of compassion, a distinct difference. The other stand out character for me was Matt Cavenaugh. Yes, I have not really seen a show where I wasn’t smitten with one of the male leads, but he was different. Of course he had the good lucks, but his charm really pulled you into the somewhat minor role of Joe Kennedy. I guess it was more that I found that weird but accurate accent appealing. I also really like how the cast played all the other roles in Act Two.
Overall, I am really impressed by this show, and really glad I decided to not be afraid of the unknown and see it. I just don’t know if I can see this becoming a long term show, due to the fact it isn’t for everyone. I think the draw so far has been the good reviews, but mainly Ms. Ebersole, but I could be wrong. If and when Ms. Ebersole leaves, I think a portion of possible new comers might go out with her. Not that I don’t think someone else could do her role justice, but because of marquee power. However, I do hope it has a very healthy run. I don’t think I will see it again soon, unless someone I know invites me, but I do hope to catch it again once I get more shows under my belt. I will definitely be looking forward to the cast recording release.
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