By Holly Gould
1820 The Musical at the Covey Center for the Arts in Provo, UT is a new Broadway-style musical that invites us to take another look at the life experiences of Joseph Smith, the founding prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. This world premiere work brings the 1820s into a more contemporary style that is both unexpected and refreshing.
Writer and director George Nelson wanted to show a more positive and human side than what often is found in the theater community. Focused around the life and experiences of Joseph and his wife Emma Smith, Nelson invites the audience to see a new and different perspective of a story that often invokes strong emotional responses for many.
From the opening curtain an outstanding technical team captures our attention with an unexpected energy that holds true through the evening. Dramatic lighting design (Pam Cluff) works seamlessly alongside moving choreography (Adam Dyer) and the seemingly simple but useful and versatile set (Nat Reed) to take us on an emotional journey. Layered with diverse musical styles from the talented songwriting team of Kendra Lowe Holt (musical director), Kayliann Lowe Juarez, and Doug Lowe, the audience feels every swell of emotion with the cast. Costumes (Tara DeGrey) are simple and give homage to the time period while not distracting from the contemporary take on the show.
Zach Wilson gives a humble and compelling performance as Joseph. He grows well with his character from an earnest and eager-to-please teenager to a mature prophet with strong convictions. Showing great range with his earnest vocals, we feel along with him the ups and downs of tremendously challenging life experiences.
Taking a modern twist, much of the story is showed through the eyes of Emma, played by Kerilyn Johnson. She gives us an intimate look into how it felt to be married to Joseph, beginning with her emotionally striking opening number “This I Know”. It is fun to see her grow from a flirty young woman into a strong and faithful wife and mother. Faith and fortitude are prominently shown throughout her performance.
This story of faith can not be told without the story of family that goes along with it. Wilson and Johnson are both skilled at showing strong relationships with other characters in the show. Joseph and Emma are portrayed with love and gentleness while still showing the trials and hard parts of every married couple. His loyalty to her feels like true devotion. The couple shows so much flirtatious fun in “Kiss My Cheek”. The strong bonds can be felt from interactions with every character onstage.
This show’s success is directly related to the incredibly talented ensemble. They truly carry the emotion of the night, and the show would not work without them. Beautiful and surprising choreography perfectly compliment each soul-stirring musical number. Seamless transitions are made from one scene to the next thanks to perfected timing and stage movement. Vocal skill is outstanding as each song evokes new emotions. Joyful faith and angelic hopes are shown with power, while dark and dangerous mob mentality is intertwined.
Many ensemble members had moments where they were allowed to shine in the spotlight. Each did so with skill and great character. Conlon Bonner is fantastic as Hyrum, with incredibly moving vocals and strong brotherly bonds. Ren Cottam plays the prosecutor and consistently draws the eye due to his charismatic energy onstage. David Weeks shows joyful fun in his character as Joseph’s boss. Aitana Alapa shows some serious vocal chops in “Who Is This Man?”.
1820 The Musical’s modern take on a story of faith is unlike any you have seen. Powerful, modern music, exquisite choreography and an incredibly talented, diverse cast tell a story of faith and family in a truly magical way. Some people think that Joseph Smith is a prophet. Some people think he is a fraud. 1820 The Musical at Provo’s Covey Center for the Artsinvites believers and critics alike to take a look at his story with a different perspective and reaffirm or reconsider your own thoughts.
Tim Layton and Jim Engebretsen present the World Premiere of 1820 The Musical, Book and Additional Lyrics by George D. Nelson, Music and Lyrics by Kendra Lowe Holt, Kayliann Lowe Juarez, and Doug Lowe.
Covey Center for the Arts, 425 West Center Street, Provo, UT, 84601
August 6 – September 11, 2021, 7:30 PM, Matinee Saturdays 2:00 PM
Tickets: $35 Reserved Seating, $25 Group pricing (15 tickets or more)
Contact: 801-852-7007
1820 The Musical Website
1820 The Musical Facebook Event
1820 The Musical promotional video
Photos by: Bry Cox
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