City of Angels - Festival 56

Hey.

I just had my final performance of the Festival 56 performance of City of Angels. Having never seen the show and not heard the music beforehand, I didn't know what to expect. After 10 performances, I can not only say I know the music pretty well but also say that is one of my favorite shows to play.

The score is wonderfully written, making full use of the jazz language as well as providing a few innovations. The only musical that has better writing in the jazz idiom is West Side Story. The story is clever and fairly easy to comprehend, with plenty of opportunity for comedy and drama. Even though it was tiring, especially after a 5-day run of at least one show a day, I am proud to have been a part of this production. The pit orchestra consisted of community players as well as a few brought in specifically for this festival. Everyone put forth %100 effort and words cannot express how blessed I feel to have shared this time with them.

For those of you who haven't had a chance to see a Festival 56 production, you're missing out. For being located in North Central Illinois, this festival doesn't skimp on the talent. Actors and actresses at all stages of experience populate these productions and the quality is apparent. This isn't Joe the mechanic overacting in his spare time; these people know their craft. There are only three shows running until the middle of August for this current season. Hopefully, this festival of theatre will continue to stage quality productions and hopefully I'll be asked to participate in another musical production.

Until next time, take care.