Copperfield! The New Musical review: A rollicking, big-hearted Dickens adaptation that is not to be missed
Bobby Conte leads a marvelously talented cast in "Copperfield! The New Musical." Review.
Charles Dickens' novel, The Personal History, Adventures, Experience and Observation of David Copperfield the Younger of Blunderstone Rookery, has been adapted into a new musical called Copperfield! The New Musical. This adaptation, now playing Off-Broadway, is a rollicking and big-hearted story that delves into the hope and happiness found within a life story marked by repeated hardships.
The musical, written by Jeffrey Scharf, embraces the darker moments of the original story, rather than avoiding them. It is set across England from 1835 to 1870 and features a talented ensemble cast, including Amelia Cormack, Jed Feder, Alexander Sovronsky, Henry Witcher, Cathryn Wake, and Nancy O' Connor. The production is directed and choreographed by Gabriel Barre, with associate director and choreographer Ashley Wren Collins.
The story begins with an adult David Copperfield (Bobby Conte) reflecting on his life, with his dashing appearance instantly drawing the audience in. The musical follows David's birth, his widowed mother Clara (Cathryn Wake), his devoted maid Peggotty (Amelia Cormack), and his eccentric aunt Betsey Trotwood (Kara Mikula). The energetic song "Betsey Trotwood, Copperfield/It's a Boy" introduces the cast and sets the tone for the rest of the production.
Young David (Calvin Knegten) takes center stage in the first act, with Young David's older counterpart stepping in to provide moral support and observations. The cast is carefully chosen to play multiple characters and instruments, transforming the small stage into a vast world filled with cruelty, kindness, and wonder. Bobby Conte, who leads the cast, delivers a strong performance as David, showcasing his nuance and heartache throughout the musical.
The musical's songs range from dastardly to playful, mournful to rollicking, creating an exhilarating odyssey that captures David's world with unbridled vigor. Standout performances include Amelia Cormack as Peggotty, Kara Mikula as Aunt Betsey, and Alexander Sovronsky as multiple characters, including Mr. Peggotty and Mr. Creakle.
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