SOME ENCHANTED EVENING The Songs of Rodgers & Hammerstein a musical revue in two acts with music by Richard Rodgers and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II. Concept by Jeffrey B. Moss for Jerry Kravat Entertainment Services, Inc. Vocal arrangements by Larry Hochman and Phil Hall. Produced at The St. Rhos Hotel, New York, January 24 1983. SYNOPSIS Some Enchanted Evening is a celebration of songs that have become a part of our lives. We sing them in the shower and we sing them to entertain and amuse. This show places five performers -each of whom could easily be cast in any Rodgers and Hammerstein show - in a theatrical setting -- first "backstage", where the songs are sung as personal interplay and then "on stage" where the songs are "performed" for the audience. Of course, the songs themselves and the five performers are the most important elements. Each singer must bring his own style and personality to the songs and to the situations in which they are set. For example, when Curly sings The Surrey with the Fringe On Top to Laurie he wants to ask her out. Each actor must find his own way and own style to achieve that result, just as each actress will find her own special way of making I Cain't Say No work as a very contemporary look at a woman's relationship with men, etc. The performers play themselves, and it's a wonderful opportunity for them to explore the songs within their own styles rather than within the boundaries of the original characters. Act One uses the songs as dialogue and explores the relationships between the five personalities. Act Two is really a collection of their own ideas and point-of-view about love - of all kinds. Although it is an act of individual performances, eventually all five come together for a grand celebration of the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic songs. For the audience, as well as the singers, this musical revue is an opportunity to examine familiar songs more closely and out of context. It can be like listening to the music and lyrics for the first time. Trust the songs. Let the lyrics tell you what the songs are about. Remember that the lyrics were written first and the music followed. But above all, let the songs be "stars". They don't need gimmicks and glitter, just five winning performers who will fall in love with each other and with the songs and then share all of this love with your audience. If you can achieve this, the performers and audience will have an enchanting evening indeed. Jeffrey B. Moss CHARACTERS • BILLY - Tall, dark, sexy . . . could play Jud or Billy Bigelow. A "Leading Man" type who must sing well and have great personality. This guy must dazzle the ladies with his charm and have a sense of humour and a commanding way with the music. • WILL - A song and dance man who could play Will Parker but also would be right for Lt. Cable. A friendly performer who must be able to ply comedy as well as tender moments. • JULIE - A pretty blonde who could play Laurie or Julie. Big soprano. Must have a soft sexiness and playfulness that is endearing. Beneath it all a spunky lady. • ANNA - An attractive lady who could play Anna, Lady Thiang or Aunt Eller. Must have a quality of mystery and sensuousness and be able to play both the regal and the silly. • NELLIE - A strong and up-front young performer who might play Ado Annie or Nellie. Appealing with a big, big voice. Might also be at home doing rock and roll but now finds herself doing the Rodgers and Hammerstein "classics"
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy ODU3MzQ=