The Bushnell, Hartford, CT
www.bushnell.org
through June 15, 2014
By R.E. Smith
For a story about intimate connections and lost love,
“Ghost-The Musical’s deepest impact comes courtesy of its grand, broad, cutting
edge visual gestures. For instance, as befits a musical whose source material
is a movie, “Ghost” features its own opening credits sequence.
With book by original screenwriter Bruce Joel Rubin, Sam and
Molly are young, successful and in love, until tragedy strikes (see the title).
Sam must bring closure to his life and their love, while protecting Molly and
dealing with his initially powerless state.
Like another recent movie-inspired musical, “Flashdance,”
“Ghost” relies on high definition video projection and intense lighting to
create a show that is part play, part rock concert. Unlike that show, the
effects are used for more than just scenery. Unique stage magic tricks and
creative blocking serve to create an otherworldly environment in a surprisingly
organic way. A subway sequence is especially cinematic; combining fast paced
set changes with unique physical movement, shifting perspective at lighting
speed.
The choreography by Ashley Wallen, too, is inventive and
unique, ably served by the ensemble. Slow motion, freeze frames, and fast reversals
of direction serve to underscore the ebb and flow of the rhythms of life.
The creators have wisely chosen not cast doppelgangers for
the film’s original stars, and letting the performers bring more original
portrayals of tenderness and longing. The role of suddenly relevant psychic Oda
Mae Brown could easily go over the top, but Carla R. Stewart plays the comedy
with a deft and realistic touch. Her big production number “I’m Outta Here,” as
well as Katie Postotnik’s (Molly) plaintive “With You” were stand outs among
the rock/pop score.
Iconic moments from the film, such as the pottery wheel and
“Unchained Melody” are present, but woven in more subtly than one would have
expected. This helps to make “Ghost-The Musical” a unique companion to the
film. The sights and sounds will wow your senses, but the story will still
touch your heart.