Too bad the Broadway show named after a giant tree is a toothpick.
The title character of “Redwood,” the musical that opened Thursday night at the Nederlander Theatre, is a humongous northern California tree. Onstage, the centuries-old conifer enters dramatically like a wooden grande dame and towers over the five actors. The majestic set piece by designer Jason Ardizzone-West is so big, star Idina Menzel and the rest are able to scale it using ropes and harnesses.
When Jesse meets Finn , a veteran climber and optimist, he proudly says, “Got my head in the clouds!” Predictable as sunset, Jesse still goes up and Menzel straps in. The aerial sequences, in which the actors push themselves off the tree and spin around while accompanied by lush orchestral music, are supposed to be euphoric and life-affirming. “I’m flying, Jack!” That kind of thing. At best, however, they’re surreal. Menzel’s songs are tailored to the actress’ pop belt, which is thrilling in parts and wobbly in others.
Theater Broadway Idina Menzel Musicals Theater Reviews
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Idina Menzel returns to Broadway in 'Redwood'In her new musical, 'Redwood,' the Tony Award-winning star of 'Wicked' and 'Rent' plays a woman seeking a refuge, and a purpose, by escaping into a redwood forest.
Read more »
Idina Menzel Brings Son Walker to Broadway Premiere of 'Redwood'Idina Menzel reflects on the decision to bring her son to the red carpet premiere of her new Broadway show 'Redwood', discussing the challenges of balancing parenting with a performing career.
Read more »
Idina Menzel Walks Red Carpet With Son Walker For Broadway Debut of 'Redwood'Actress Idina Menzel brings her son Walker to the red carpet for the opening of her new Broadway show, 'Redwood', reflecting on the challenges and joys of parenting while pursuing her career.
Read more »
Idina Menzel Returns to Broadway in 'Redwood,' a Musical Inspired by Environmental ActivismIdina Menzel makes her Broadway comeback in 'Redwood,' a poignant musical exploring environmental activism and personal trauma. Inspired by the story of Julia Butterfly Hill, who lived in a redwood tree for two years to save it, the show features cutting-edge video installations and movement design. Menzel portrays Jesse, a woman who flees her life in New York City and finds solace in the redwood forest. The musical marks Menzel's first collaboration with an all-female creative team, a groundbreaking experience for the actress. Menzel also pushes her creative boundaries with vertical dance, learning new skills and performing upside down on ropes.
Read more »
Idina Menzel's illness cancels ‘Redwood’ show, ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ wins Grammy and more |Last weekend, the Saturday matinee preview performance of the new musical “Redwood” was canceled due to its star, Idina Menzel, being sick.
Read more »
Idina Menzel Prioritizes Family and Career Amidst Broadway OpeningSinger and actress Idina Menzel balances motherhood with her acting career as she prepares for the Broadway opening of her new show, 'Redwood'. She opens up about the joys and challenges of parenting, her son's presence in her life, and the importance of pursuing her passions.
Read more »