By Ashley Ramsey
As a child, my father read us bedtimes stories. Never simple little tales, but chapters from the classics. Treasure Island, The Wind in the Willows, and of course my favorite, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. In a time where classic characters of literature are lost to contemporary superheroes, the Hale Center Theater Orem’s latest production reintroduces some o fliterary history’s greatest adventurers.
Big River is the musical adaptation of Mark Twain’s famous book. The play begins with Huck Finn (Andrew Robertson) lamenting about being “civilized” by his caretaker Widow Douglas (Cecily Ellis-Bills) and her sister Miss Watson (Hannah Gassaway.) When his drunk Father (Daniel Fenton Anderson) comes back to claim him, Huck is thrilled to be back living in the back woods. Then one night in a drunken stupor, his Father comes after Huck, causing Huck to run away to a nearby uninhabited island where he surprisingly ends up meeting Miss Watson’s runaway slave, Jim (Conlon Bonner.)
Director Christopher Clark’s vision for the show utilizes every workable space in the theater. The show requires a trip aboard a raft to several locations in which the story plays out, and the blocking gives us clarity to what is happening. This is supported and enhanced by the beautiful set designed by Bobby Swenson and lighting by Cody Swenson.
Oftentimes, Big River is is produced as larger cast musical, but this production includes a smaller cast tackling several roles (Bryan Matthew Hague and Spencer Thomas Carter tackle six roles!) as well as the live music. Clark’s guidance is evident in making sure that these characters remained grounded as they move the story along.
Andrew Robertson’s Huck Finn and Conlon Bonner’s Jim are highlights of the show. While the two of them have strong and developed characters individually, it is when the two of them are onstage together that the energy and talent blows through the roof. The musical number “Muddy Water” was a favorite as the adventure really took off and the raft ride began. As well as “River in the Rain,” which showcased beautifully the blending of the two actors’ voices. The scene itself contained a rawness to it that almost made the audience feel as voyeurs peering in on very private moment.
Another favorite of the evening was the character of Tom Sawyer, skillfully executed by Jason Sullivan. His boyish charm and charismatic excitement pull you in every time he comes on stage. Daniel Fenton Anderson’s “Pap” rendition of “Guv’ment” is one of the best of the evening, dripping with characterization from entrance to exit. Also, keep your eyes out for a very funny pregnant tart courtesy of baby Wyatt Bills making his stage debut with his mom, Cecily Ellis Bills. There is something positive and outstanding to say about every member of this cast. Bravo.
One of the unique aspects of this production–and it is the first time I have seen it at HCTO–is live music! Oh, what a treat! Under the guidance and leadership of Justin Bills, the live music added so much to the overall production. The energy that comes from a live band (and a band made up by cast members no less) is thrilling. I really hope this is trend that will continue for the Hale.
Big River is a treat and a must see. It is a perfect blend of fun and asking you the right questions. As Huck learns about and questions the world around him, it will challenge you to think, too. In a world where we are so quick to dismiss the value of another person because they are different than us, Big River challenges us to think how different the world would be if we replaced that dismissal with love and understanding. A message truly needed in our world where too often, lines are being drawn. Mark Twain’s adventurous tale on the Mississippi is a reminder that though we may be different, trying to see the world through one another’s eyes will bring two worlds closer in finding a place to stand together.
Big River
Hale Center Theater Orem, 225 West 400 North, Orem
Feb. 20 – April 12 7:30 PM, Sat matinee 3 PM
Weeknights – $19 “A seats” $16 “B seats”
Weekends – $21 “A seats” $18 “B seats”
Children (ages 4-11) – $5 less for “A seats” and $4 less for “B seats”
*Price includes processing fee
Purchase tickets 3 ways:
1) Online by clicking the button below
2) By phone by calling 801.226.8600
3) In person by stopping by the theater at 225 West 400 North in Orem
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