A Tumultuous Relationship at Marriott Theatre
All of these tall tales and adventurous stories have taken a toll on Will and his father’s relationship. Even on the eve of his wedding, Will asks his dad— for both his and his new wife’s sake— not to tell any of his stories. And so we see the cracks continuing to grow in their already fraught relationship.
Edward, played by Alexander Gemignani, tells his stories with bounds of energy and a larger than life presence. He shifts with ease from his sixty year-old self back to a young man in his flashbacks.
Will, played by Michael Kurowski, lashes out at his father, but as he sings Stranger, we realize underneath he’s just searching for a way to grow closer to him before it’s too late.
No spoilers here, but as we reach the end there wasn’t a dry eye in the house as we watch these two navigate their relationship in the end.
Stagecraft Creating A Grand Adventure
Though not on a grand scale, we do feel the changes from adventure to adventure with minimal sets. The ensemble carries long, blue cloths down the aisles as Edward sings about the river. They rapidly rush back and forth as he and Will sing about the divide between them.
The lighting changes to a soft yellow as cast members bring dozens and dozens of daffodils out to Sandra (Heidi Kettenring) as Edward proclaims his love for her.
