Only one word can describe “Songs for a New World”—phenomenal.
The show is a contemporary musical revue both written and composed by James Robert Brown and beautifully directed and choreographed by Marguerite Bennett, associate professor of Speech and Theatre.
Each song had its own poignant message, unique and yet thematically tied into the premise of the show. Brown is quoted in the playbill saying, “You didn’t know that you sometimes have to go ‘round an unexpected bend, and the road will end in a new world.”
Each musical number, either performed in a group or as a solo, had Brown’s message embedded in the lyrics.
The songs were about relationships, fear, materialism and sacrifice, to name a few themes.
The song “On the Deck of a Spanish Sailing Ship, 1492,” alluded to the Spanish Inquisition, when people were forced to convert to Christianity, die in the name of their religion or leave the country.
This number was undoubtedly one of my favorites of the production.
The sophisticated lighting, perfect harmonies and powerful emotions from the performers moved many of the audience members to tears.
UT voice student Donna Barkley commented on the vocals. “I really enjoyed the show,” Barkley said. “Overall, it was very entertaining. The actors really looked like they were having a lot of fun up there. Each costume was really tailored to each individual. They really look professional.”
UT alumni Sara Maas also enjoyed the show. “The voices of the performers definitely brought to life Brown’s score. The voices were so good . . . a very entertaining performance!”
The range of songs were diverse and the issues revealed were always complex. It was easy to go from laughing to crying depending on the mood of the song. “Surabaya-Santa” and “She Cries” for example contrasted the more serious songs “I’d Give It All for You” and “The Flagmaker, 1775,” one about a mother’s agony over whether or not her son will return home from war.
The solo performances were beautiful, but when the ensemble came together the effect was captivating. Although it was a small cast, the talent that the eight performers displayed filled up the stage. The actors in “Songs for a New World” gave true meaning to the phrase quality over quantity.
