A NOTE FROM THE PROGRAMMING DIRECTOR

In July 1987, Playhouse Square had the honor of launching the original production of Big River as it made its touring debut. Through the process, we got the chance to work very closely with the production’s creators, and I developed a great affection for the musical that I had become so familiar with.

In September 2003, while attending a conference of new musicals in New York, I was asked to attend this new production of Big River as a favor to a friend who was booking a tour of the show. Although the positive word-of-mouth reactions and the glorious reviews of the production resulted in sold-out performances, I was somewhat skeptical of what this new version might be. My apprehension was not because it was produced by Deaf West Theatre in Los Angeles, but because it had been described by many of my colleagues who had seen it as really special, which is not common vernacular that one necessarily uses when describing Broadway musicals.

Perhaps because of my affinity for my time with the show in Cleveland, I decided that I should really check out this new production myself, rather than relying on someone else’s perception of it. So I did.

What I witnessed that evening at the American Airlines Theater was perhaps one of the most inventive revivals I have ever seen. The permanent, unit set eliminated the need to change set pieces that detracted from the story in the original production. And the story was being told by a company of hearing and deaf actors, where everyone signs and everyone has a voice. The signing is woven seamlessly into the production numbers, so much so that it becomes part of the choreography. And, songs like Worlds Apart and Waiting for the Light to Shine expand beyond overcoming differences in skin color.

We are privileged to have many of the Broadway actors as a part of this tour. Tyrone Giordano plays the role of Huck. Daniel Jenkins, who originated the role of Huck on Broadway almost 20 years ago, is Mark Twain and the voice of Huck. And Cleveland’s own Michael McElroy is Jim. In addition to the treat of having such a brilliant cast, this production of Big River has one of the most stunning moments I have ever witnessed on stage. You will know it when you see it.

It is now thrilling to see the return of Big River in this very smart new production to Cleveland. In New York, I noticed that in lieu of applauding, many audiences members extended their arms up in the air and wiggled their fingers—a gesture to let the deaf and hard-of-hearing actors see our appreciation. Please join me tonight in showing our gratitude for this unique and really special theatrical event.

Gina Vernaci - Director of Programming