The Production Involves Special Effects and a Varied Choreography
For me, Jesus Christ Superstar and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, considered rock operas or rock musicals, have an added je ne sais quoi that sets them apart. It might be because I grew up Catholic, learning about these stories.
Moonlight Theatre is closing its season with The Prince of Egypt, which I consider to be a part of this category, and a musical that is not often produced. With music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and a book by Philip LaZebnik, the story, also based on the DreamWorks Animation film, takes audiences to Egypt through the Book of Exodus, where brothers Ramses (Nicholas Alexander) and Moses (David Burnham) are raised in royalty with Tuya (Lauren Patrice) a tender mother, and Seti (DeAndre Simmons) a strict but loving father. Ramses, as the oldest, will become Pharaoh and rule the kingdom. His marriage has already been arranged with Nefertari (Janaya Mahealani Jones), also from a royal dynasty. When a secret comes to light, the brothers become at odds, with one being the ruler and the other trekking to save the Israelites from slavery.
Larry Raben directs the sizable cast that moves gracefully around Andrew G. Hammer’s scenic design, featuring pyramid-like walls complemented by Blake McCarty’s projections, which effectively enhance the frame with added effects in famous scenes, such as the partying of the sea. Jimmy Locust’s choreography combined ballet, modern dance, and even some fun acrobatics, making the piece truly stand out. Familiar little faces like Arden Johnson and Iris Manter, both seen last in Matilda, contributed to this standout, and I cannot wait to see what the future has in store for these two talents. There is a key scene with Mäeva Feitleson as Tzipporah with a dance solo that could be tightened up more. The show did open a couple of days ago, so maybe with the ongoing performances, it will get there. However, both Feitleson and Brooke Henderson, as Miriam delivered a beautiful rendition of the hit song “When You Believe”, a smash recorded initially by Mariah Carey and the late Whitney Houston.
For a large outdoor venue like Moonlight, with a large cast, Jordan Gray’s sound went over nicely with no setbacks. Elan McMahan’s vibrant musical direction has audiences clapping and following along with the musical numbers. Jennifer Edwards’s lighting shines especially with the scenes in the brothers’ “secret room,” where both the colors and frames pop.
Nicholas Alexander and David Burnham make for a cool brother duo, and each performer brought their own with hefty charm and powerful vocals. Janaya Mahealani Jones as Nefertari, although her scenes are brief, delivered a strong, moving one that left the venue stone quiet. DeAndre Simmons shone again with his powerful operatic voice and grace. Lauren Patrice, as the tender mother Tuya, is sweet with straight, intentioned delivery.
For some of us, going to Vista involves an expedition, but it is worth it, as the experience is unique with a lasting impression.
The Prince of Egypt is currently playing until September 27.
Stanley D. Cohen is the Stage Manager and Sadie Holdaway is the Associate Musical Director.
