Music Circus brought to a close its 66th season with the production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. What a great end to a great season!
Music Circus is one of only three theatre companies that Disney licensed the musical to in 2016. The musical version of The Hunchback of Notre Dame was a joint effort by the creators of The Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast (Alan Menken), Wicked and Pippin (Stephen Schwartz).
We all know the storyline of the novel of the same name penned by Victor Hugo and published in 1831. The story takes place in Paris during the reign of Louis XI. The beautiful gypsy Esmeralda has multiple admirers – including Dom Claude Frolio, soldier Captain Phoebus de Martin and Quasimodo – the deaf bell ringer of Notre Dame.
Like the book – things do not end well.
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I was very intrigued to learn that director Glenn Casale had cast John McGinty, a deaf actor, in the role of Quasimodo. This is a first – the first time a deaf actor has played the role.
Disney agreed to some modifications to the story to accommodate McGinty – opening up the possibilities for deaf actors in the future.
McGinty as Quasimodo was outstanding. He is not only a very good actor, but when he spoke it added greatly to a very realistic portrayal of his character. Jim Hogan, who played the part of a gargoyle (one of the Disney approved adaptions), provided the singing voice of Quasimodo. What a great voice!
Lesli Margherita as Esmeralda was exceptional – her acting and voice combined with her beauty was perfect for the role. For that matter – all the principles had the good, strong voices needed to carry off the lyrics and music of the songs.
Dressed as monks, a 19-member choir composed of faculty, students, and alumni from the Sacramento State University Opera Theatre program, as well as members of Sacramento area choral groups, added great depth to the performance. The choir was assembled specifically for this production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame.
As always, Music Circus continues to amaze me when it comes to their inventive sets. The Hunchback of Notre Dame plays through Sunday.
Comments on The Hunchback of Notre Dame?
Did you see the show? Please share your thoughts on the production.
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I waited to see the production until I commented. I was captivated at the matinee yesterday. It was such a terrific production. I still remember the lines in the book about the entwined skeletons so when they were spoken yesterday it brought me to tears. I wanted to find out more about John McGinty but the program only included his roles. What a courageous person! Your were spot on.
Thanks.
Thanks for commenting!