If you like music and appreciate the process of how songs are given life by composers and performers, one of the most pleasing experiences in life is to see music performed in public for the first time - to watch the audience reaction, to see how comfortable the performers feel with the music and lyrics. I once had this experience in Atlanta, when the musical “Aida” premiered at the Alliance Theatre. The music, written by Tim Rice and Sir Elton John, was quite unique for a traditional musical and, even though various name artists had already recorded it as a concept album, this stage musical was a remarkable experience. Seeing it performed on stage by live performers at the Alliance came with revelations about the composition and performance process, as well as a new appreciation for the musical product.
I also have had the privilege of watching songs evolve from emotions, ideas and poetry to entertaining and moving musical treasures from my songwriter son. I still haven’t convinced him that one of his songs, “The Right Woman at the Wrong Time” has the potential to be a quintessential country music hit. Something about wanting to keep control over “his” music. Plus, he always shakes his head when I request it, perhaps because it reminds him of a failed relationship (of which he doesn’t like to be reminded in the presence of his wife). Still, knowing the process and work that went into this catchy and entertaining song, I always appreciate it when I hear other artists try out or offer new work for others to try.
This past Saturday evening at Gilman Waterfront Park in St. Marys, an audience of friends, neighbor and visitors were treated to this experience at the hour-long revival of “Crooked Rivers’ Sisters Three.” During the shortened presentation, many of the performers from the original “Crooked Rivers’ Sisters Three” cast held forth in the heat of fading sun with enthusiasm, in spite of some renegade gnats and skeeters, in moments of tenderness and humor, to share some history of our community. During the performance, Crooked Rivers’ primary composer Jim Bryant allowed performers to unwrap two “new” songs that he had originally written for the show that didn’t make it into the inaugural performance. Bryant’s work, which is remarkable for its feel and emotion-evoking lyrics, shone with good humor and informed sensitivity to the messages of Crooked Rivers. I mean, it takes a great deal of moxie to compose a palatable song about our area’s biggest pests, sand gnats. His other new offering detailed how some who felt they might have wasted their youth on the Crooked River, after some reflection realized that those moments might not have been wasted at all. Bryant’s songs, as well as the powerful and meaningful stories that comprise the “Crooked Rivers” experience are the best and most appealing part of the show. Having Jim Bryant as a part of the “Crooked Rivers” process and product has been and continues to be a blessing for our community and for “Crooked Rivers’ Sisters Three.”
A personal note: this week the Third National Tour of Les Misérables closes in St. Louis. Our contingent will be present to see history made, sing the songs and share the tears. Our Jason will shine as Valjean at least one more time, and we will be reminded once again “to love another person is to see the face of God.”
Opportunities for this week and the future: Another laugh-filled Alhambra Dinner Theatre show “Love, Sex and the I.R.S.” premiered last week; try out a free family-filled ‘ Fun Day” of art at the Jacksonville Museum of Modern Art from noon until 4 p.m. on Sundays; take a final summer fling to Seaworld in Orlando to see the new Shamu show, 4-6 times daily, info at www.seaworld.com; you might make plans to see these concerts: REO Speedwagon, 9.24 at the Florida Theatre; Peter Frampton, 10.18 at the Florida Theatre; Eric Clapton, 10.21 at Veteran’s Memorial Arena; Doobie Brothers, 10.25 at the Florida Theatre.
If you have ideas or events you want me to share with readers, send me a note at pkraack1@tds.net.
7.19.06
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