This Broadway By The Bay production of
”
Miss Saigon
”
moves at a faster pace than previous versions and better holds
the audience’s attention. Noted by the most critical theater
pundits as the most technically complex play ever produced, this
production does not disappoint.
This Broadway By The Bay production of “Miss Saigon” moves at a faster pace than previous versions and better holds the audience’s attention. Noted by the most critical theater pundits as the most technically complex play ever produced, this production does not disappoint. The story line takes place in war-torn Vietnam and is loosely patterned after Puccini’s fateful opera “Madam Butterfly.”
There are some special effects, scenery and a magnificent cast of some fine talented people who do an amazing job. They have raised the bar that pales most other versions of “Miss Saigon” that have been attempted in Northern California.
Seventeen-year-old Catherine Gloria plays Kim – the innocent, young child/woman who has to turn to the sleazy life of the streets to survive. She has a strong, sweet voice, and her portrayal from the innocent lady of the night to the protective mother to the long-suffering heroine is handled with a maturity beyond her years.
Noel Anthony as the all American GI carries off the role of Chris, Kim’s lover, with the cynical and bitter attitude about a war and people that mean nothing to him when he finally finds love in his last days in Vietnam. His tenor has depth and clarity. His chemistry with Gloria is believable and poignant. He is Broadway-caliber material.
“The American Dream” number near the end of the second act is like a Roman candle that sparkles with humor. Paul Araquistain in the role of the nefarious, cruddy, sleazy, utterly creepy engineer with absolutely no redeeming qualities has the desperate, ultimate dream of manipulating his way to his promised land, the United States. He not only runs away with the show; he is the show. He plays the part with the insidious delight of the serpent of Eden, bringing procuring and hustling to a new low.
And then there is the famous helicopter scene, where the vibrating Huey helicopter lands on the roof of the American Embassy during the fall of Saigon. This rumbling structure flying on and off the stage with shock and awe is the most realism I’ve seen in four productions since London and Broadway.
Broadway By The Bay always manages to hit its target right on mark. I haven’t seen a production where they have missed. They give absolute professional superb offerings at half the price of some of their competitors and always deliver a truly a class act. They are the best-kept secret outside of San Mateo for fine musical theater.
Director Alex Perez keeps a tight reign on the production and keeps it moving with detailed precision. Musical director Mark Hanson conducts a 20-plus excellent orchestra. House Manager Kevin Low, a human dynamo of energy and efficiency, keeps the front of the house sane.
Cameron Mackintosh of “Cats,” “Phantom” and “Les Miserables” fame produced Miss Saigon.” It is noted that this show came in as the most costly of all his productions at $12 million to produce in the United States.
This is one of the best productions of “Miss Saigon” that has been offered in Northern California, and you don’t even have to go to San Francisco to see it.
Camille Bounds is the arts and entertainment editor for the Western Division of Sunrise Publications.
