Well, as DR Jason just "explained", we managed to get house seats for The Color Purple. It was their first preview tonight. Before heading out this morning, I made sure to print out a copy of the discount offer from Playbill.com. When we stepped up to the box office and asked for two tickets, I noticed that the gentleman behind the glass was pulling up a list of names on his computer screen. Hmm.. Would magic strike again like it did a few weeks ago when DR Jason got his house seat for Sweeney Todd? Well, yes it did. Center Orchestra, Row D.
Once we got into the theatre, I almost thought we were going to be too close since the passarelle came out into the house and covered Row A. But it was cool being that close - I love seeing actor's faces. And from what I could tell, we could still see the "big" stage pictures.
The show really is in good shape. There are some inspired moments/sequences of story-telling, and there are other that are still waiting to be discovered. And there's one running "joke" that pays itself off many times over as the evening progresses. -And, yes, I'm being cryptic and secretive about it.
Casting-wise, not really a weak link in the bunch. I did have one "issue", but it's sort of a minor quibble, and I'll save that comment until after the show gets a few more performances under it's belt.
It was during the intermission that I said, "Hi," to Mr. Tunick and his lovely wife, Lee. On the way out, I also managed to compliment and congratulate Paul Tazewell, the costume designer. -The creative staff was gathered at the back of the house as creative staffs are wont to do during previews. Paul has done a ton of work down at Arena Stage - and many, many other theatres around the country and the world.
