By Kathy Carpenter
Man of La Mancha is one of the most successful musicals in Broadway history. Winner of five Tony awards including best Musical. Based on a 1965 book by Dale Wasserman, lyrics by Joe Danon. music by Mitch Leigh. Adapted by a 1959, play I, Don Quixote. Inspired by Miguel de Cervantes and his novel Don Quixote. This rendition is sort of a happy go lucky look at a tough situation. Life as we should probably all live. Happy to be.
Fresh Broadway qualityTheatre in San Diego.
Jeffrey Landman, Robert J. Townsend, and Heidi Meyer – photo by Ken Jacques
This musical is for people with vision, dreamers and creative imaginations. To be able to dream the impossible dream and reach fro the stars. A story play. With Cervantes awaiting his trial in prison by the Spanish Inquisition, his peers put him on trial. He tells them the story of a mad knight, Don Quixote. Quixote is happy just to be on a quest. It matters not whether he succeeds or not. Just to be on a journey brings him happiness, Which spreads to those surrounding him. They supply what he asks to bring him joy. He makes a huge difference in the life of a prostitute. With nothing going for her in the end he has raised her up to a better sense of self. Gives her hope as she reaches for the impossible dream. Happiness in the moment with what we already possess.
Scott Thompson directs, Robert J. Townsend plays Don Quixote, to watch him act is a treat. He was a master. Aldonza, played by Heidi Meyer, has tremendous, and fought off her attackers with passion. A great scene to watch as she overcame the odds, for one scene, Sancho, Quixote’s sidekick, with him because he loved him. Was played by Jeffrey Landman. I loved Jeffrey he brought the humor. One other person with a fabulous voice Joseph Grienenberger, playing the Padre. Bill Bland, brought his talent as the Governor, and Innkeeper. A strong presence.. Of course we have many more in this village to bring us this powerful play. Great job transitioning to the play within the play.
The setting was a castle like effect including a wooden drawbridge, an amazing focal. With kind of a courtyard for the rest of the show.
The music, beautiful with fun lyrics. Townsend brought the house down with his rendition of “The Impossible Dream.” Sensational. The music supplied by the masterful Don Le Master orchestra.
San Diego Musical Theatre teams up for You Give We Give, with The Make A Wish Foundation, please give as you exit the Theatre.
Next up to finish out the season A Cristmas Story. November 29 – December 29, 2019.
San Diego Musical Theatre
Man Of La Mancha
September 27 – October 27, 2019
The Historic Horton Grand Theate
444 Fourth Ave. San Diego
858.560.5740
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