Les Miserables vs Solo Computerized Marimba

This week, I went to see two completely different shows -- the traveling broadway production of Les Miserables, and a solo computerized, amplified marimba show. Though I am not a huge broadway fan, I felt the urge to see Les Mis because it has been so popular for so long, Bastille Day is quickly approaching, and because I was offered free tickets.

While I did not think that the performers were at their best, I can say that the music contains several very memorable melodies, and it avoids a lot of the usual cheesiness of broadway shows. Most of the time, they actually had something to sing about, though the best singers in the show were actually the more minor roles. Cosette was not good -- she had trouble carrying some of her solo melodies. Even though I was unfamiliar with some of the songs, I could tell she was missing her notes. Her mother, Fantine, was also off-key, however, Eponine (a side character) had a beautiful voice, as did some of the Marius' friends, and Javert, the police inspector who is after Valjean. In all, it was an enjoyable show, however, some of the leading roles could use some work.

The marimba show was completely contemporary -- the solo artist (Nathaniel Bartlett) had composed several of his own pieces in addition to the other two that he performed. I had never seen anything like it -- it was amplified and the marimba was hooked up with a computer and speaker system so he could control sound effects and other background noises to accompany the marimba. Part of his set-up included theremin-like sounds, but also other unidentifiable effects, and the speakers were set up at different places around the theater as well as different levels to create a complete surround-sound experience. Very unique. His work is clearly for a niche audience, but if you are interested in avante-garde marimba work, he's your man.