Songs for a New World

Music & Lyrics by: Jason Robert Brown

Directed by: Stephanie Riggs

Music Directed by: Mark Mullino

Produced by: Our Productions Theatre Co.

Audience Rating: PG (mild language, adult themes)

Running Time: 2 hours + intermission

Accessible Seating: Available

Hearing Devices: Not Available

Sensory Friendly Showing: Not Available

ASL Showing: Not Available

Sound/Lighting Level: Comfortable

Audio/Visuals to Prepare For: None

Reviewed by Eddy Herring

If you have never seen a production of Songs for a New World by Jason Robert Brown, this production is a MUST see! Our Productions Theatre Co. has created an evening of theatre that is simply beautiful. This is not your typical musical with dialogue and exposition, but a story illustrated through song. Opening night at the Lewisville Grand Theatre was abuzz with excitement and a near sold out audience. Having not seen a production with this company before, I was equally anxious to see it, especially after seeing some of the names in the cast. I had a feeling I was about to see something really special.

I was very familiar with the music from Songs for a New World but had never actually seen a stage production. Typically performed with a smaller core cast, Our Productions chose to expand the cast with an ensemble of youth actors which helped create many layers to this journey adding choreography, sound, and a youthful energy to the company numbers. I was especially moved by the creative interpretation and staging that added an element of timeliness to songs in Act 2 specifically. The emotion evoked was inspiring and heartbreaking but ending in hope.

Director Stephanie Riggs assembled a stunning cast that navigated the gorgeous set design by Scott Kirkham, complemented by Sydney Han’s ethereal lighting design and sound design by David Lanza. Costumes by Annie Vaughan were simple and relevant in colorful jewel-tones. Mark Mullino as music director created a pure audible feast filled with full blended harmonies, soaring soloists, and heartfelt musical connection. And notably, the sound mixing by Tara Mozena was on point. The live music and mics were perfectly blended, and you could hear every single word whether soft or belted. The performers never competed with the stunningly perfect accompaniment. A rarity in many musical productions.

I would love to mention every performer for their outstanding work, but there are just too many to name. All performed with commitment and power making each moment meaningful and memorable. However, I must specifically call out the stunning vocals of Jonathan McGinnis in the opening numbers, Morgan Fitzgerald in “Christmas Lullaby”, and Campbell Bovairdin in “Flying Home”. These heartfelt performances evoked all the feels.

Songs for a New World by Our Productions Theatre Co. is an absolutely beautiful night of theater! There are only three performances remaining, so please go see this show. If my schedule would permit, I would be going back to see it again. It’s that good.

Ticket information is available at https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?ticketing=fmpat.

GO SEE THIS SHOW!

Thank you.

Eddy