First 2 Shows

Saw two performances today. One was a silly, yet well choreographed, musical that tried to take itself too seriously. It was called “Grand Hotel” and was staged at the Dunmar.

The Dunmar is well known for pairing exceptional actors with talented directors. Last year I saw “After Ms. Julie” at the same location and was absolutely blown away by the show. This year, I was left a bit disappointed. However, the shortcomings were not that of the cast or director. In fact, the actors were superb and the staging was captivating. It was the material itself that lacked in substance and wit. The music was unimpressive and the lyrics banal. I felt as though I was watching an early work of a never to be accomplished writer.

After the play we went out to dinner and invited one of the leads to join us. He seemed to be very nice.

As the evening progressed we were hit with a shocker. Our friend had purchased same day tickets for another play, “Festen” at the Lyric. The show, to say the least, was astonishing. The plot was simple; after his sister’s death, a son confronts his father with charges of sexual molestation. The whole thing takes place during the father’s birthday celebration.

I could not put down my binoculars. The lead, Luke Mably (28 Days Later, Colour Me Kubrick, The Prince and Me), was both gorgeous and very capable. He took my breath away when he confronted the father during a birthday toast. The rest of the cast members were also great.

Now I understand why the old queens, the company of friends I am here with, spend so much time and money on these shows. They are hoping to recapture the feeling which I experienced tonight while watching “Festen.” They want to be overwhelmed and caught off-guard once again. Unfortunately, today, there are too few plays or musicals capable of creating such sensations.

Tomorrow I get to meet Sir. Ian.