“Held Momentarily” at FringeNYC 2014 at The Sheen Canter (Closes on Saturday August 23, 2014) Book, Music, and Lyrics by Oliver Houser Additional Material by James Zebooker Directed by Hunter Bird Reviewed by Joseph Verlezza Theatre Reviews Limited
There is a fresh new voice speaking to a new generation of American musical theatre with an interesting production entitled “Held Momentarily” being produced as part of the NY International Fringe Festival. Oliver Houser, creator of this new work, has assembled a group of diverse commuters in a subway car that has stopped mid tunnel due to technical difficulties and tests the power of the human condition. The book is utilitarian in providing enough plot and interest to keep the action moving at a steady pace and serves the actors well in discovering a definition of character. The music is complex, at times melodic, diverse, and for the most part produces a good marriage for the astute lyrics; but in certain respects it lacks the force and drive to infuse the situations that develop.
The entire cast is capable and digs deeply to unearth non stereotypical characters that create the kaleidoscope of everyday New Yorkers. Their vocal ability though inconsistent never falters below acceptable; however, it is difficult to single out performances with the lack of a song list in the program. All manage to delineate characters that are real and constantly develop as the plot progresses.
There are however a few problems that might be addressed when dissecting this incarnation in order to improve this promising new work. In the opening sequence, frivolous movement attempts to create the force and drive, inadvertently overpowering the sophisticated lyric and diminishing the music, which instead should be the catalyst. Back stories are always presented as an aside to educate the audience rather than revealed in conversation to develop relationships with other characters, creating a tighter weave in this colorful tapestry of humanity. With this modification the ending would become more powerful, emotional and better represent the quintessential rebirth of each character. Examine the symptoms of pain, loneliness, disappointment, fear and anxiety more carefully to find the cure. The homeless subway rider needs a song explanation as to how she ends up riding the subways with all her possessions in tow; she is a person not a representative object. Commit to trusting the material and curtail the Durang absurdity which switches on too quickly providing laughter but also confusion. It is a daunting task to create book, music and lyrics while also performing in the production. Hopefully when viewing the video some of this constructive criticism will appear valid.
In the mean time, try to catch one of the remaining performances of “Held Momentarily.” You will not be disappointed. The young Mr. Houser will in time become a recognizable voice in the musical theatre scene. This indeed is a welcome addition to the FringeNYC.
HELD MOMENTARILY
“Held Momentarily” is presented by Lionel A. Christian and Marielle Young in Association with The Present Company (Elena K Holy, Producing Artistic Director). Directed by Hunter Bird. Musical Direction by Jeremy Lyons. Choreographed by Katie Palmer.
The cast of “Held Momentarily” includes Jordan Barrow, India Carney, Elliot Greer, Oliver Houser, Andrea Nevil, Geena Quintos, Yael Rizowy, and James Zebooker.
For performance schedule, ticketing information and more information about the presenting company, please visit www.FringeNYC.org. For mobile ticketing, please visit www.FringeonTheFly.com. The running time is one hour with no intermission.
Permalink | Posted by David Roberts on Monday, August 11, 2014
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