“Motown: The Musical” is rightly described by its slogan “The beat of a generation. The soul of a nation”. Gaining four nominations for Tony Awards, “Motown: The Musical” is indeed a worth watching Broadway production. The New York Times calls the play “The Biggest Box Office Hit of the Year”. The musical premiered on Broadway on 14th April and is still thrilling the audience with its irresistible music and contagious energy.
Motown: The Musical tells the intriguing tale of stars of the 60s and 70s that includes some of the top names from the music industry. It is a story about young protégés and their music journey under the supervision of Berry Gordy. Carrying the title, "The Sound of Young America", the artists go on to become the greatest superstars. The success story of artists through the eyes of their mentor is exciting and enigmatic.
Sneak-peek
The story begins in 1983, when Berry Gordy comes to attend the silver jubilee of his own record label "Motown Records", at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium along with many other established stars. Amidst the hustle bustle, he has a flashback and remembers his journey how he started his own label and came across the young artists, who were now his life-long friends and big stars.
Treat for the Ears
The recording artists with their singing skills add magic to the musical. Ross sings "I Hear a Symphony", "You're All I Need to Get By" and "You're Nobody 'Til Somebody Loves You". Stevie Wonder performs "Buttered Popcorn" and "Where Did Our Love Go". Other popular songs include "Please Mr. Postman", "By By Baby'/'Two Lovers Medley" and "Dancing in the Street". Overall the music in the play is full of energy and emotions meant to sweep the audiences off their feet. Amazing music catalogue chosen for the play coupled with remarkable acting skills of the Broadway stars truly make the production exceptional
Creative Minds at Work
Motown: The Musical is directed by Charles Randolph-Wright, and the credit for scenic design goes to David Korins. Choreography to the splendid music is given by Patricia Wilcox and the attractive costumes donned by the stars are designed by ESosa. Natasha Katz adds the amazing lighting effects, while Peter Hylenski is the sound designer. The talented actors, who cause hearts to skip a beat with their amazing performances, include Brandon Victor Dixon as Berry Gordy, Valisia LeKae as Diana Ross, Bryan Terrell Clark as Marvin Gaye and Charl Brown as Smokey Robinson, along with Jibreel Mawry as the young Michael Jackson. Many others play their part in taking the story forward.
What People Say
Charles Isherwood, in his review for The New York Times writes, "The performers put their songs across with verve and an admirable lack of self-consciousness" but then he also points out that there is an element of self-distance as you see the impersonated character only. On the other hand, some believe that projecting someone else on stage and doing it convincingly highlights the acting qualities of the actors. Such opposing reviews add to the curiosity of the people who are buying like hot cakes. Media reviews, however, are all appreciative of the play. The Record calls it "Electrifying and Irresistible". New York Post says it is "Thrilling and Electrifying- familiar yet completely fresh". All these appraisals and successful shows proves that the musical is being liked by critics and fans alike.