The Arts
Theater Review: Jekyll & Hyde
Lack of extremes
Jekyll & Hyde
Through Nov. 28 at Greater Orlando Actors Theatre
669 Cherry St., Winter Park
407-872-8451
www.goatgroup.com
$18
Dr. Henry Jekyll has been mixing his drinks again – literally. One particular cherry-red concoction – formula HJ7 – could be providing him with quite a kick, shifting his normally placid personality from friendly to fiendish. The resulting identity has a penchant for murderous behavior and particularly nasty romantic proclivities. In fact, his qualities are so different from the good doctor’s that he even has his own moniker – Mr. Edward Hyde.
Robert Louis Stevenson’s 1886 Gothic tale, The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, was transposed into a smash Broadway musical, Jekyll & Hyde, in 1997. The show’s book, music and lyrics are by Steve Cuden, Frank Wildhorn and Leslie Bricusse. The Greater Orlando Actors Theatre is currently staging the work under the direction of Paul Castaneda, with Don Hopkinson serving as musical director.
To its credit, GOAT has managed to cram the expansive creation into its less-than- cavernous Cherry Street space with a cast of 30 well-costumed performers who sing acceptably and move comfortably in the small acting area. The leads include John Gracey as Jekyll, Erin Brenna as Lucy, Scherezada Morales-Roman as Emma, Rob DelMedico as Utterson and, in a departure from the standard modus operandi, Stephen Pugh as Hyde.
While the acting and vocalizing are generally up to snuff, GOAT’s production suffers from a lack of the sort of special effects that can convert a middling book and score into a spectacular theatrical experience. For instance, instead of the same actor transforming himself from Dr. Jekyll into Hyde amid an array of optical illusions and flashy stagecraft, Gracey and Pugh must dart on and offstage as nimbly as they can, replacing one another in full audience view. More often than not, the seams show.
In addition, directors Castaneda and Hopkinson have decided to mic their actors, who must then battle a taped score played back at unsuitably high levels. Since the audience is never more than 10 feet away, the overkill is completely unnecessary. Lastly, how to light the tiny space with an audience on three sides totally stymied the tech crew – at least half the show is performed in relative darkness, and impenetrable shadows mar many scenes.
Fans of the musical will enjoy renditions of such popular tunes as “This Is the Moment” and “Someone Like You,” and GOAT is to be commended for tackling this theatrical behemoth. But on the scale of good versus evil, this Jekyll & Hyde falls somewhere between the two.
Comments on this story:
On 11/11/2009 2:37:47 AM, Anonymous said:
Let me start off by thanking you, Al for reviewing our production. I'm glad you came and that you seemed to enjoy at least some of what we did. To respond to some of what you wrote (and I hope there is no offense taken as none is intended):
1. The lack of special effects was a directorial choice. We had more in there in our original concept, but the story in the end is a human story about the duality of man. On stage, it should be about the people and the themes, not about disappearing furniture, movie style effects involving the Jekyll/Hyde transformations or magic tricks.
2. The darkness, again, was a directorial choice. To me, Jekyll and Hyde is about goodness/light attempting to break through the evil/darkness that is within each of us. If everything is well lit and beautiful, then to me Jekyll's final act/victory is shallow.
3. I respectfully disagree on the miking of actors and the sound levels of the score. This show is known for its beautiful, full and lush orchestration. To not give that to the audience in order to not mic the actors was a choice I was unwilling to take.
I guess all I'm really trying to say is, since "the acting and vocalizing are generally up to snuff", then any blame lies with my choices as director. And that I can live with, because I firmly believe that my musical director, assistant director, choreographer, cast and crew have done an unbelievable job with this show.
Thanks, again, for the review. And hope to see you again, soon!
Paul Castaneda
Artistic Director
Greater Orlando Actors Theatre
www.goatgroup.com
Thanks again for the review!
On 11/11/2009 12:45:15 PM, Anonymous said:
Well Said Paul....everyone sees something different...
On 11/11/2009 2:15:12 PM, Anonymous said:
I think that there are some technical issues with the space, but I fail to believe that the lack of special lighting fx completely deterred the audience from the story. I also feel that the technical aspects of a show should some how reflect the time period it is written as, and not be made the central focus of the audience. I agree with what is said here of the tracks being loud at times, but I would have liked to have seen more written of the story and the performances.
On 11/11/2009 2:21:07 PM, Anonymous said:
This reviewer seems to have walked into the show with a list of preconceived notions of how Jekyll and Hyde should be executed. While opinions are like a**holes (and they all stink), it's too bad that his opinion of this show is limited to that of a "spectacle" filled with flashing bells and whistles. Al, wouldn't the seams surface far greater with cheeseball, hocus-pocus effects? This isn't Wicked, and we're not trying to Defy Gravity here.
As Paul stated, it runs much deeper than flash and 'razz-ma-tazz': It is a tale of duality and the struggle of living in a society torn apart, a message all-to-relevant in today's times. Goat Group stripped the play down to its bare bones in an attempt to reveal the true monster within. The result served to astonish not only audiences, but the cast themselves (I, being among them): We're not as separate from what drives our inner demons as we'd like to believe. That is true theatre....no "illusions and flashy stagecraft" attached.
My name is Adam McCabe, and I should have been born with a sock in my mouth.
Thanks! ^_^
On 11/11/2009 2:49:15 PM, Anonymous said:
P.S.....No offense meant in my words! Enjoy GOAT's quality theater (and dashing performers) at affordable prices! *bows out* -Adam
On 11/11/2009 2:57:05 PM, Lamar said:
I'd like to see the work, but there's something at odds about miked actors in a stripped down production. It's like a guy who wears prescription eyeglasses AND earrings.
On 11/11/2009 3:06:46 PM, Anonymous said:
Well I mean...."stripped down" doesn't exactly mean we're going to light our actors by candlelight either. Certain steps are a necessity. Let's be real here.
On 11/11/2009 3:27:51 PM, Lamar said:
I was thinking of The Fantasticks.
On 11/11/2009 6:16:35 PM, Anonymous said:
Interesting how whenever GOAT receives a bad review TONS of individuals post against said reviewer. Whether here or against Elizabeth Maupin. Funny how that happens isn't it?
On 11/11/2009 6:24:42 PM, Anonymous said:
First, I am blown away that a director would comment on a public forum about a review of his production. That is poor theater etiquette, in my opinion. A director and company of cast and crew must produce and perform the best product they can deliver and let it speak for itself. A play or any other live performance art is to be appreciated and judged by each individual viewer. Whether or not the audience "gets" the particular directorial choices is irrelevant. If the choice doesn't play well, if it doesn't land, then that is a judgement the production must live with and learn from. I have been a member of the Central Florida theater community for 12 years and I would be mortified to be associated with an organization that would behave in the manner that GOAT's director has exhibited here.
As to the production itself, I did see the show on Opening night. I had high hopes as it is one of my favorite musicals. I saw the original broadway run with Linda Eder and Sebastian Bach. Needless to say I thought the broadway production was flawless and have been in love with the music and book ever since. At intermission of GOAT's production I was ready to walk out and ask for a refund. $33 dollars for two tickets was an astronomical price for the level of production they offered.
While the ensamble numbers we "acceptable" the soloists were generally week with the exception of Hyde and Emma. Lucy continually showed that her part far exceeded her capabilities as she was often off key and off pitch.
Overall felt the acting placid, the cast generally looked confused, nervous or like they were trying to remember their lines. There was little genuine interaction and emotion. Again, with an exception of Hyde and one or two admirable performances by ensamble cast members.
I also thought that the relationship between Lucy and Hyde was misrepresented in this production. Lucy's character as a whole seemed to miss the mark of the intended arch. First we see her a some victorian english version of a valley girl with a terrible affected accent, then she is a wimpering lamb. Her arch may have been helped without the omision of Good & Evil (a song performed in broadway version) which was apparently stripped from the show in favor of Bring on the Men as a women's ensemble number. The choreography was uncomfortable to sit through at such a close proximity to the cast. Further, the inclusion of the child cast member in the scene was a tasteless choice.
Lucy is intended to be a strong and confident character who shows small but increasing moments of frailty only to Jekyll due to his kindness toward her. The actor's portrayal of this role in GOAT's production was weak, whiny and lacking in depth.
As for the technical aspects of the show, the faults were numerous. First I will point out the distraction of hearing the stage manager talking through the entire production from the tech booth. I was sitting in the furthest possible seat from the booth and still I could hear her and her crew talking through the entire production. Second, the execution of lighting cues often showed errors and caused distraction. Dead characters were being helped off the set in full light while characters performed ballads in total darkness. Whether the cast couldn't hit their marks or the lighting was poorly focused I do not know. However I do not see the directorial advantage to having your actor's face in darkness while they are lit from the knees down. Their is a proper way to use shadow and light to convey emotion in a scene, this production looked messy, unpolished and hap-hazard in the area of lighting.
Set changes were messy and loud. Backstage the cast could be heard dropping things, cursing when they presumably bumped around in the darkness and occasionally were shoved out of stage without their proper props.
Additionally the blocking either had me straining to see the focal character over ensamble members in my face or dizzy at seeing the characters pacing needlessly back and forth along the same three-foot path every actor took from the first mid-stage platform, back down to their downstage right mark and back upstage again. The constant need to move the characters was not supported when the stage right audience area still spent most of the show looking at backs. More often then not the cast was directed straight out or to the downstage right corner.
There were decent performances and even a few very good numbers that were mired by poor technical planning, poor direction and other partially substandard performances.
On 11/11/2009 7:27:31 PM, Anonymous said:
The above comment certainly doesn't pertain to the "Jekyll and Hyde" I saw. I would suggest this person look to his/her own spelling and grammatical errors before considering themselves to be someone worth reading.
On 11/11/2009 8:00:22 PM, Anonymous said:
Wow. I plan to see GOAT's production of Jekyll and Hyde this weekend and have heard nothing but great things from several other patrons. Fortunately I am not the type to be deterred by someone like the commentator above who has an obvious axe to grind.
On 11/11/2009 8:16:17 PM, Anonymous said:
To the above comment, no, I do not have an axe to grind as I have had no prior relationship with the GOAT theater. I am not a disgruntled former member of the group nor someone who was turned down at an audition. I have however spent several years in professional theater. I have been out of the local community theater scene for quite some time and (before this show) had never been to see a GOAT performance despite the fact that I have known many friends who have graced that stage.
The truth is that I wish Orlando would hold itself to a higher standard of excellence. What passes for quality in this town is what has held this community back from being the cultured and affluent town is strives to be. Why are so many local theater groups struggling to survive and prosper in this town? Because the general public who is not related to or friends with an individual associated with the any particular production are at times so put off by the lack of quality.
There are some real gems in this town; great directors, great actors and wonderful organizations who produce real quality. For my $33, GOAT's J&K was a miss.
That doesn't mean that people shouldn't go see the show and decide for themselves, it just means that I didn't it. enjoy
However, I feel compelled to again restate my amazement that a director would comment and vocally justify his production in response to a review. That is poor form and I would hope that a higher level of tact is observed in the future. Theater is supposed to hold itself to a certain high level of etiquette and that should not be lost.
On 11/11/2009 8:18:33 PM, Anonymous said:
and that should have read J&H.
On 11/11/2009 8:42:03 PM, Anonymous said:
This is appalling and the director has done GOAT a huge disservice by running his mouth about "the duality of man" and all the other stereotypes about bad local theater directors. Where's your frilly scarf, Paul? If GOAT has any hopes of wiping the egg off their face, they'll demand that their people stop commenting on their own reviews. Ridiculous.
On 11/11/2009 8:43:49 PM, Anonymous said:
I'm sorry, but the person who wrote the novel up there really needs to get off their high horse and take a look in the mirror. You treat theater like it's supposed to be some fine-tuned, militaristic display of perfection. You should be ashamed and embarassed that you completely forgot the purpose of the art: Expression. The cast and crew of Jekyll and Hyde give too much heart and soul into their performance each night to be nit-picked by some prude who can't get his head out of his own ass. Am I being completely unprofessional? YEP! But I'd gladly sacrifice professionalism to keep myself in touch with my craft. I'm sorry, but I'd be doing myself a serious disservice as an actor if I didn't express these feelings in defense of something I KNOW wasn't a half-cocked imitation of art. It's the real deal, an art of which you have clearly lost sight. I feel sorry for you. My name is Adam McCabe, and I don't care who knows it. Go jump off a cliff.
On 11/11/2009 9:00:08 PM, Anonymous said:
I totally agree with the writer above... I think it is extreamly tacky for the director to keep with the back and forth with the reviewer (who is just doing their job)...I thought the show reminded me of a high school performance. "Bring on the men" made me and my party very very uncomfortable. Emma's father did not make eye contact with anyone he was speaking too the entire show. The set was exceptionally cheesy (expecially Jekyll's lab) and the "set" changes were sloppy, slow, and way too loud. I thought Lucy's voice was weak. Jekyll's voice was very nice, but it was not strong enough for a song like "this is the moment" Emma had a strong resemblince to a squaking bird. I didn't understand the interpretive dance that was happening in the background of a few of the songs. It was so distracting and a little amusing. The use of "guts" took away from Lucy's death and so did the ziplock container they were stored in that was clearly visible to everyone. This was just my opinion as a theater lover.
On 11/11/2009 9:08:48 PM, Anonymous said:
Man....people are really vicious....can we all please just cool down? Reviews are one thing, but some of the statements being thrown around are just plain rude and hurtful. While certain actions taken may have been unprofessional, we can't forget why we do this in the first place: Because we love it...
On 11/11/2009 9:18:05 PM, Anonymous said:
To the anonymous commentator above...give me a break. Any director is allowed to comment in any format in which he or she pleases, especially when they have the guts to put their name to it unlike the anonymous poster above. I thanked the reviewer for his review, am glad he enjoyed aspects of the show and attempted to explain some of the choices made. Please don't lecture me on professionalism. I have directed and acted on several stages in several major cities and started as a child actor on television 30 plus years ago. And, again, I have the guts to say who I am for all to see, not blast away and talk about my vast experience from my insulated anonymous bubble.
Sorry, you didn't enjoy the show. A ton of people have, including 2 other reviewers (one who called it "some of the finest community theater you’ll ever run into") and a close friend of the show's creative force, Frank Wildhorn, who stayed behind to congratulate my terrific cast and our interpretation.
This is America, people. We can comment on anything we'd like. Who died and left you or anyone else king of what is "proper behavior" from a director or cast. Unlike you, I'm sure, GOAT is doing everything it can to support not only its own endeavors but those of all other theaters in town, at our expense (both in ticket discounts to patrons of other shows AND free listings of all other shows currently running in our programs FREE OF CHARGE). What are you doing Mr/Ms 12 year vet, besides running your mouth about what is proper or not. When did you become the etiquette police? Do you trash other directors when they comment on their reviews here and in Betsey's blog, because they do...or do you save you vile for GOAT?
The funny thing is,I enjoyed this review as much as the two other more favorable ones, because I love to see how different folks interpret what they experience.
As for your $33, I'll be happy to refund them if you ever have the guts to say who you are, which I very much doubt.
In the interim, we'll keep on doing what we've always done, put on new spins on existing shows, put on new shows and support (rather than judge or tear down) ALL LOCAL THEATER IN ORLANDO. Perhaps you, sir or madame, should try and do the same.
Paul Castaneda
Artistic Director
Greater Orlando Actors Theatre
www.goatgroup.com
Proudly NOT anonymous
On 11/11/2009 9:22:27 PM, Anonymous said:
Oh and to those that did not enjoy the show, I appreciate your input and maybe you'll like the next one better. Can't be all things to all people. Thanks for attending.
Paul Castaneda
On 11/11/2009 10:52:52 PM, Anonymous said:
I am really shocked at all of these comments. I know it sucks when people write negative things about something you worked really hard on, but that is how it goes in the art world. Not everyone will like everything. But reading these comments it is amazing to see how out of control some people's responses are. I agree with one of the previous comments. Maybe everyone should chill a little bit. If someone doesn't like your show it isn't the end of the world. So what, big deal. I don't think people need to resort to name calling. Ok you jerks! :-) Kidding! I did see the show, I didn't think it was that great, but I also saw Millie at the Kennedy Center and thought it was terrible. They had horrible spotlight ops! You win some, you lose some. We all move on to the next thing. But I do think that maybe Paul is going a little too far and letting his passion get the best of him. It might not look good to other readers if the director of a theater is going off on people on a comment board. Rise above everyone. Let the negativity roll off your backs. Have a great night everyone!
On 11/11/2009 11:10:31 PM, Anonymous said:
To 10:52PM Anonymous:
Yes, I am passionate about what I do and don't regret it. I appreciated the review and thought my comments back were in the spirit of an intelligent exchange of ideas. and, I would have even engaged in the same type of exchange with Anonymous 6:24 if it hadn't also included a lecture on how out of line I was for simply responding to a review. This is ridiculous. This is 2009, not 1976. It is the age of the internet and the free and easy exchange of ideas.
Further, other directors constantly comment back on their reviews...as do patrons, friends and family members of other theaters, actors, etc. I know because I follow the blogs.
Everyone is entitled to their opinion: reviewers, patrons, actors, directors, writers, etc. Art is not meant to be exclusive, but INCLUSIVE of all of us and all of our unique perspectives. I appreciate yours and hope you will visit us again. Thanks for your even keeled post.
Paul Castaneda
Artistic Director
Greater Orlando Actors Theatre
On 11/11/2009 11:13:49 PM, Anonymous said:
this is extremely unprofessional. this reviewer was just doing his job. as a cast member of this show, I'm not happy with a bad review, but I'm not upset about it either. It's a review. Chill. I'm upset with the unprofessional behavior shown here. we sold out this weekend. sold 100 seats in a theater that seats 70. dont insult the reviewer. it's just a review. get off your computer and love the show, the expression, the art, the whatever. don't sit here and throw words at eachother. it's so, so unprofessional. Even if you dont care about professionalism, blatant rudeness on an ONLINE THREAD aimed at ONE GUY who was just DOING WHAT PAYS THE BILLS does a great disservice to the theater, thier reputation, and any upcoming productions they might have planned.
On 11/11/2009 11:14:46 PM, Anonymous said:
I would like to say that I am in total disagreement about the so called "un-spoken theatre etiquette" mentioned above. Everyone is entitled to their own opinions. However, it certainly does take sour grapes to verbally slander any specific performer because you feel that every actor who plays a role needs to play it the exact same way you've seen before, because you feel that the genuine emotions and attachments they portray in specific moments are not formulaic. Good acting is rooted in truth and humanity. Yes, this is a musical, but a concert medley it is not! As for Lucy's character specifically, she is a human being composed of many levels. She is not specifically written to be a one dimensional "tough as nails" strumpet on the prowl("this is a mask she wears"). She is a young woman of unfortunate circumstances doing what she needs to do to survive, wishing for a way out of the gutter, and some semblance of a nurturing relationship. And like most "Strong and confident" people she may also cower in submission at the threats and realities of physical abuse as demonstrated in scenes with both her pimp Spider and Hyde, this does not make her "lacking in depth" but rather genuine and multi-faceted. I am sorry if this did not come across for you on the night you attended this production. If you would care to come again and see if another night's performance is more to your liking I would gladly offer you another ticket on me.
On 11/11/2009 11:26:58 PM, Anonymous said:
To 11:13:49 PM Anonymous - Don't walk into every shit storm you're invited to: It may cause some unnecessary internal drama. Not saying that you shouldn't have an opinion, but stating that you're a member of the cast, chastising key people involved in your production? You bring up great points, but why shit where you eat? (that's two poop references for the price of ONE!)
On 11/11/2009 11:34:37 PM, Anonymous said:
Once again and for the record, even though I do not believe that 11:13 was aimed at me, I love Al's reviews and all reviews. Had no problem with it and I was just trying to exchange cogent thoughts with an obviously educated reviewer. My problem was with the unnamed "protectors of theater etiquette" who thought I have no right to exchange ideas with a reviewer.
Good night, folks
Paul Castaneda
Artistic Director
Greater Orlando Actors Theatre
On 11/11/2009 11:42:51 PM, Anonymous said:
I miss the days when this town still had respectable people who understood that carrying themselves in a professional manner was a virtue. I have a feeling that this director is going to alienate more people than he will attract to his theater.
On 11/11/2009 11:53:23 PM, Anonymous said:
I really am trying to go to sleep...but, 11:42PM, what exactly is unprofessional about respectfully responding to a review that is put on the internet to be commented on? What EXACTLY did I say or do that was unprofessional? Maybe I missed it, as I am typing this in between caring for a partner who is viciously sick with the flu...but where was I unprofessional to Al? And as for my response to the original anonymous up there, I had no problem with their take on the show, even if we disagreed. I had a problem with him/her telling me I'm not allowed to engage a reviewer in intelligent conversation when many other artists in town do it, all the time.
Paul Castaneda
On 11/12/2009 12:00:14 AM, Anonymous said:
/thread ......please.
On 11/12/2009 12:22:52 AM, Anonymous said:
Man, this is the third or fourth time I have read something about someone from that cast/crew calling out other people in the show. Guess that is not a very happy family over there.
On 11/12/2009 12:29:16 AM, Anonymous said:
What part of "/thread" didn't register with you? We all get along fine. There will always be some bad apples in a cast. Their loss. Now let's stop this fucking thread and quit being douche bags. -Adam McCabe
On 11/12/2009 12:35:32 AM, Anonymous said:
I am so sad and disappointed to see that certain reviewers could be so rude when describing how they didn't like Lucy's performance. If you didn't like it, say it with a little more courtesy. I personally thought the actress that portrayed Lucy did a great job, and even if you didn't, you should still maintain a certain level of respect to her because, well, we are people with feelings. For God’s sake, this isn’t Broadway. This is a group of people who love what they do that want to keep the dying entertainment in this town alive for the enjoyment of others. As for the rude people who I’m addressing: to speak so ignorantly and immaturely when describing such a hard working actress just tells the rest of us that you are mentally and emotionally incapable of having a valid opinion of what theatre should be, or sound like. Granted, no one is perfect, but we are all human. Some nights are better than others, etc. But above all, you were just being rude and hurtful, and that won't get you anywhere. As a performer, I know more than anyone about how hard these actors and singers work to put on a show under a tight budget, the stresses of working on top of rehearsing, getting sick, and the list goes on. Yes, that's the business, but please, give these people a break. I am amazed that so many people had such an amazing love and devotion to their craft and to the show that they came together to put this together. I won't even do community theatre anymore because I can't afford it and can‘t handle that added stress, so I really commend the people in this show and any other community theatre production that are willing to exhaust themselves and make less money...just to put on a good show. I know that in doing that the process is grueling, but the feeling of accomplishment once the show goes up is a great feeling. Please don’t take that away from them. I think everyone is entitled to their opinion, and I actually think the initial reviewer did his job with dignity and respect. Although it may have been harsh to some, so is show business, and although you may not agree with it 100%, everyone is entitled to say what they want. However, I am disgusted with some of the wording used to describe people that are, above any performance critique, truly good people that are devoted to their art. You can have your opinion, but why must you word it so that it becomes hurtful? That’s inappropriate, and above all, disappointing. Lindsey Trefz
On 11/12/2009 12:51:20 AM, Anonymous said:
Very embarassing and bad form all around. Mr. Krulick, thank you for giving this show notice no matter what the opinion. To each and everyone posting here - the review is where it should have ended without ongoing debate. This is a disservice and a pissing match, and it embarasses all. You should have known better.
On 11/12/2009 1:14:14 AM, Anonymous said:
This isn't the special olympics, not everyone gets to be a winner just for trying. Not everyone can be a great painter, or doctor, or archetecht, or whatever. Same goes for actors. No one ever won a Tony just for trying really hard and loving being an actor. Some actors are better than others and if you ask people to pay good money to see your show, then they have a right to complain if it wasn't good. If you don't want people to complain, don't charge money. Or just sing in your living room for your parents.
On 11/12/2009 1:38:15 AM, Anonymous said:
Mr McCabe - your references to douce bags and asking readers to jump off a cliff shows the very lack of respect many here are talking about. You do your cause absolutely no good.
On 11/12/2009 1:44:58 AM, Anonymous said:
Does no one teach these kids manners anymore?
On 11/12/2009 1:48:18 AM, Anonymous said:
For the love of God! I just jumped online to ask some friends to pray for my partner who I am taking back to the hospital with a virulent case of the flu and made the mistake of checking in here! Can you all just take your hate, your cute cutting remarks, your snide dismissal of others work of expression and SHUT THE HELL UP. This is a show...take it or leave it...like it or lump it...stay in the cast or don't (if you even are a cast member mr/ms anonymous 3000009). Al wrote a fine review, I added my two cents in conversation (which is not a declaration of war nor an invitation for your Miss Manners Class on theater etiquette) and then all hell broke loose. Stop insulting each other and actors you don't even know. Stop posting anonymously when you are going to insult someone. Stop denigrating Special Olympians AND artists. Stop living in judgement, exclusivity and yes, hate. Life is too short for this crap. Now, if it is ok with y'all I'm going to go sleep a couple of hours before getting some boys to school and rushing their mom back to the ER...I'm sure it will be more important to someone out there to get the last word...again...anonymously than to recognize the frailty of life and the beauty of art however it is expressed.
Paul Castaneda
Artistic Director
Greater Orlando Actors Theatre
On 11/12/2009 1:53:37 AM, Anonymous said:
By "many here", we all know that there is one real person who is in attack mode here...(no need to post twice). Misery loves company and you attempt to make yourself feel better by slandering those who have a lot of talent, determination, and heart, (and hey, they give you lisence by putting their talent out there) because there is something un-fulfilled within you that gives you a god complex and gives you the need to validate your own self worth. Have your opinions, be miserable, and mudsling all you wish...I'm sure non of it will fill the void of your empty meaningless existence. Tickets are selling, real critics and audiences alike agree...it's a great show with a talented cast...leads as well as ensemble. You're not going to change that, and you have proven in your "thoughts" that you have no business expressing any form of a valid "professional" opinion. Sorry, but the one thing people don't need is someone with such a negativity as yours spreading their disease to others.
On 11/12/2009 2:39:13 AM, Anonymous said:
If you don't like what people write about you, don't read it. No one is forcing you to read these comments. Clearly you have something more important to be worried about, but still you read the comments and complain that these comments won't let you attend to other matters. I'm sure anyone would wish your family a speedy recovery of their health, but why would you even mention that in a forum such as this?that seems like personal information that is better kept personal.
On 11/12/2009 9:18:55 AM, Anonymous said:
Can we be done with this? I'm pretty sure we're all looking like idiots at this point. No matter what we say, or how valid our points are. Let's all just bring this to a close...Wind it down, maybe? -Adam McCabe......P.S. I like the word 'douche bag'. I use it to describe douche bags. Thanks!
On 11/12/2009 9:38:37 AM, Anonymous said:
Unfortunately it is the lack of respect exhibited by comments such as " SHUT THE HELL UP. This is a show...take it or leave it...like it or lump it...stay in the cast or don't" and "I like the word 'douche bag'. I use it to describe douche bags" that is causing most of the problems here. That, and this particular statement - "real critics and audiences alike agree...it's a great show with a talented cast". That perhaps is the rudest of all. The writer above in the original article IS a real critic and has been for years and to degrade that is rude and direspectful, and the audiences who are not enjoying the show, or find it less than "great" (and there seem to multiples on all sides) are audience none the less - they are not less "real".
The problem occurred not when the director chose to write in to the critic, the problem occurred when the director: A) Felt the need to argue his choices and B)Felt the need to engage the horrible comments here and C) Cast mates followed and decided to insult all. Mr. McCabe, you tend to be the worst here in terms of yelling, insulting, and then demanding that others stop. That is called hypocrisy. Sad it has come to this. But not surprising considering past behavior.
On 11/12/2009 10:11:11 AM, Anonymous said:
Alright, there comes a point where a guy has to stop and ask himself "Would I rather be right, or would I rather be happy?" I'm choosing the latter. I can throw around stupid little phrases like "douche bag" and use all the juvenile comments in the world (for my own amusement and stability....to loosen up and avoid becoming too full of myself), but I'm certainly not flat-out bashing the talents of actors on stage....especially when I know that they're giving it their all. No matter how sour certain notes would be, or how lackluster a stage setting, I could still step out of myself and appreciate the fact that people are actually out there expressing themselves and trying (even if they're not completely succeeding) to tell a story. The fact that some of you would stoop so low to viciously (and tactlessly) tear somebody apart on a thread shows more immaturity and brutality than anything I've said on this page. This whole debacle is just laughable now, and I'm ashamed to have been a part of it. Nobody's winning here, and unfortunately, I think we may have some unnecessary wounds to mend because of comments thrown around----Both emotionally (among the actors), and a community that just wants to put on a good show. I love Orlando community theatre, and I'd happily (and proudly) love to see any of your shows. I appreciate Al's review and completely understand every point he made. If my actions came across a little harsh from the get-go, I (sincerely) apologize----I, like so many here, have a passionate heavy hand when it comes to my art. We're in this together. We can't forget that. -Adam McCabe
On 11/12/2009 10:14:38 AM, Lamar said:
Paul Castaneda - Many people, myself included, will pick apart a show (theater, music, whatever), criticize every directorial decision, call out every flaw in execution, and yet at the end of the day, they still enjoyed the show.
On 11/12/2009 10:35:02 AM, Anonymous said:
The original review written by the Weekly deserved none of this. It was a lucid, well thought out, and complimentary review with things pointed out that did not work. What a shame it continued on as it did, starting from the first posting to the last at 10:11. The only one that truly makes sense out of all of this is 10:14. So leave it all be, please? It is indeed laughable Adam, but you have been a main participant and proponent of that. No one here is right except THE CRITIC FOR DOING THEIR JOB. I urge the Weekly to cut out comment pages on things like critiques.
On 11/12/2009 10:42:59 AM, Anonymous said:
......Wow.
It's truly revolting that an online review would deter me from a show; When it's not even because of the original review to the material, but from the cast and crew's response to it!
Let it be. I understand this production is your work, your love, your passion, your BABY! It hurts when someone has negative reviews or comments towards your work, but for members of the cast to continually be flat-out disrespectful to the people who have seen the show and didn't particularly like it? Rude and tasteless. Then to sit and call someone a douchebag, tell them to shut the hell up, and THEN throw in your personal life and events happening daily? Absolutely ridiculous.
(Although, I do feel for you. My thoughts and prayers go out to your wife and family in their time of need.)
And a Dr. Phil moment, no matter how much I loathe him:
Others' opinions sometimes don't align with our own, but we suck it up and deal with it. Learn to be mature about a situation and let someone HAVE their opinion, no matter the harshness of it. Not everyone's going to like it or agree with it. I truly believe the comments could have been much worse, people can be absolutely cruel. Deal with it, that's what life's all about.
Good day to you all.
On 11/12/2009 10:49:40 AM, Anonymous said:
From: Mia Sotis , G.O.A.T. Board Member
Well said Lindsey Trefz, please see Lindsey's comments above
on 11/12/2009 12:35:32 AM,.Lindsey's commentary puts it all into perspective beautifully.I agree with Paul, we are always happy when a reviewer comes to one our shows no matter what the review. A so called "good" review is fine but a so called "bad review" is simply Constructive Criticism from ONE person. Nothing More , nothing less.But at the end of the night "reviews" are merely opinions that happen to be "in writing". During intermisssion and at the end of every show I hear "reviews" that come out of our patrons mouths. One, for example from a seasoned Broadway theatre goer who is now retired and living here in Orlando. She came up to me and told me this...
"I couldn't have seen anything better if it had been at the Bob Carr"..she didn't know anybody in the show, in fact this was her first G.O.A.T. experience. For me , that woman's "review" is just as important and valid than anyone else's. Not because it was a "good" review but because it came from the heart and was sincere. The only problem I have with Mr. or Miss "Theatre etiquette" review is that it semed to be spiked with malice and not sincerity. I didn't feel anything "Constructive" in it's tone. I do, and I say this with all sincerity and not sarcasm ,sense a "passion" coming from Mr. or Miss Theatre Etiquette's review and encourage you to pursue your own forum one day. I can only hope that perhaps in your own forum you will show what other reviewers have and that is,the Art of Fairness and Balance.
You will see that people WILL Comment on your Comments whether it's cast members, directors, crew members or patrons and in turn it is also TOTALLY ACCEPTABLE for the Reviewer to Comment Back. Good intelligent banter is always acceptable.A War of the Words or a "pissing match" as someone put it, is not.
As far as anyone having an
(for lack of better words)issue with the G.O.A.T. unless you're coming from a position where you've actually worked with us....well then.I challenge you, Mr.or Miss Theate etiqutte (or anyone )to come and see what G.O.A.T. is all about. Correction... I challenge you to see what ANY of our fellow community theatre projects are all about. By this I mean all of the literall & figurative Blood, Sweat & Tears in addition to the Time,Sleep Deprivation and Money (which there is never enough of)and all done for the dedication, passion and LOVE of the craft. I am Mia Sophia Sotis. G.O.A.T board member
On 11/12/2009 11:04:05 AM, Anonymous said:
After reading all of this I can say I will never go to a show at GOAT. I didn't even know about the place until I read the review. Which in my opinion is the reason for the review. Then I read the replies to the review and I honestly will never step into the establishment. It is a huge mistake to comment on reviews if you are affiliated with the production, business, art, or whatever is being reviewed unless you are saying thank you. You have to remember that potential guests to your establishment are reading and watching.
On 11/12/2009 11:09:43 AM, Anonymous said:
My God Board Members just stop. There is no good intelligent banter here at all nor has there been from the start.
I have posted her only a few times in this fruitless argument above, the first time mentioning that this always seems to happen when GOAT gets a less than glowing review from anyone and that obsessive trend continues here. Sometimes class and silence outweighs any "Blood, Sweat and Tears". Stop making excuses or defending the fact that you worked so hard and it was so difficult it is for everyone, everywhere. I am pretty damn sure that when a movie bombs that they did not set out to make a bad movie, and that they put their "BS&T" into it. I believe 1:14am (no, not I) stated as such in a great way. Let this die and stop trying to dig yourself out of a hole of your own creation. Just pour more dirt in to seal it up and move on.
On 11/12/2009 11:11:54 AM, Anonymous said:
and continued: The posting by the reader at 11:04 is the greatest indicator of why you should stop. A wiser idea would be to contact the paper and seal this comment page from posts. That is better damage control than continuing to address it.
On 11/12/2009 11:41:08 AM, Anonymous said:
I believe that everyone is in fact in agreement that the reviewer did his job and did a service to both Goat as well as the Orlando community with this review. The negative, slandering comments which follow all seem to stem from a single page long comment above that stirred up a great deal of controversy and then the said poster appears to have posted other similarly written rebutles to then continue stirring the pot. I believe that it is because the attacks were made in such a personal way (seemingly someone in the cast or close to in some way) that everyone reacted so strongly. However, none of this bantering is in any way constructive. You can't please everyone, and some people "Just want to watch the world burn". I fear that all of this negativity(probably as intended by said commentator)will in fact sway patrons from coming to enjoy this production, and judging for themselves. But honestly the show is better than that, so it needs to stop.
On 11/12/2009 11:45:00 AM, Anonymous said:
A lot of really immature people at GOAT that can't handle criticism. Get over yourselves. Let me give you a hint, when you get past a certain age there is no more A for effort. You are supposed to be trying to please your audience, not ask them to tolerate your mistakes or lack of talent. I've worked with several GOAT alumni in the past year, now I can see where their bad attitudes come from.
On 11/12/2009 11:57:19 AM, Anonymous said:
END SCENE
On 11/12/2009 12:02:09 PM, Anonymous said:
11:41 - the posting you speak about seemed to me to be an accurate representation of that audience member's experience. While the anger at the director posting was apparent, the individual seemed to have a lot of knowledge of the show itself (not Goat's, but of the actual musical). It is also humorous that members of the group keep saying stop when they are the ones propagating a lot of this negativity. The way to have stopped would have been to never post in a defensive manner in the first place.
On 11/12/2009 12:15:38 PM, Anonymous said:
For the record: I did, in fact, apologize for (and retract, if forgiven) my previous statements. Nothing good has come of this. We're all defending what we feel is right, but it's gone too far. I'm not willing to sacrifice any more professionalism for something so pointless. -Adam McCabe
On 11/12/2009 12:30:55 PM, Anonymous said:
Bad, good, or mixed reviews aside, I might have gone to see this show because I love the music. But after reading this I would never go to this theater. I am afraid I might get chased with pitch forks if I didn't clap loud enough.
On 11/12/2009 12:38:49 PM, Anonymous said:
I am in complete agreement that this needs to end...however as for the supposed individual above having "a lot of knowledge of the show". You whole argument was based on your supposed experience seeing Linda Eder perform with Sebastian Bach on Broadway. However, the Lucy opposite Sebastian was Colleen Sexton during that period of time. Proving once again, that your arguments are invalid, and this debacle is merely an attempt to stir the pot.
On 11/12/2009 12:57:32 PM, Anonymous said:
Ahhhh c'mon.. Are You kidding , not going to see this show? Due to my personal budget reasons I was on the fence but now...I can't wait to see it, especially now ! With all the quote "Passion" coming from all directions, how could you not. If you like theatre, you like theatre.PERIOD. No review good, bad or indifferent OR Blogging comments could or will ever sway my opinion of a show or a group/theatre. There is no such thing as BAD Press. I'm there !
On 11/12/2009 1:02:38 PM, Anonymous said:
I was just reading through some of these....I've been to so many GOAT productions in the past. They're just really passionate about what they do. PLEASE DON'T LET THIS THREAD TURN YOU AWAY! It's one of the best experiences you'll have in a theater in Orlando. In an intimate black-box setting, there's absolutely nowhere to hide. You feel like a part of every production, and everybody makes you feel welcome. Seriously, while I think things could have been handled differently here, you can't hate on a theater group for being passionate, no matter how that passion is expressed! GO SEE THIS SHOW! It's truly a thing of beauty!
On 11/12/2009 1:14:08 PM, Anonymous said:
Theater downtown, Orlando Shakes, The Rep, Mad Cow, those are great local theaters that have earned their good reputation in the theater community. Given this back and forth and the exchanges on the Sentinel blog in the past I would say (in my own opinion) that this theater has a long way to go before it can call itself great.
On 11/12/2009 1:58:19 PM, Anonymous said:
YES, indeed Theater Downtown, Orlando Shakes, The Rep, Mad Cow, those ARE GREAT local theaters that have earned their good reputation in the theater community and JUST LIKE THOSE THEATRES
only through trial & errors, hits & misses and above all the TEST OF TIME will GOAT earn their reputation.One thing those theatre's didn't have to deal with when they started out was the everyone's a critic society of BLOGGING, but I digress. A few bad reviews (or good reviews)unhappy patrons ( or happy patrons)and snide remarks DO NOT a REPUTATION make. Hang in there GOAT you're doing fine ;)
On 11/12/2009 2:23:16 PM, Anonymous said:
I think that all of the negativity on here is astounding! I've seen the show and was quite aprehensive as to wether or not they could pull off such a tradtionally epic performance in the GOAT space. To my surprise it was phenonenal. Phenomenal that is for a Community theatre production. The stage may be barren but it only helps to emphasize the extraordinary talents of this remarkable cast. I implore anyone reading these comments to look past the nonsense and just watch the show and enjoy good local theatre.
On 11/12/2009 3:34:19 PM, Anonymous said:
Paul, if you are still reading this you can donate that $33 to the Hope & Help Center.
On 11/12/2009 7:06:01 PM, Anonymous said:
W O W ! That was a something . . .
To all cast members and directors of this show,
My name is Dalles Wilie I used to live in Orlando FL were I played Jekyll & Hyde in Sanford, I am now living in NYC currently in rehearsals for Jekyll & Hyde (again) here. A few of my friends are in your show and I hope they are all having a wonderful time. The discussions above reminds me of the "Board of Governors" Scene in Jekyll and Hyde
JEKYLL
If I ever needed further justification for my experiments, gentlemen,
You have just provided it!
JUST LOOK AT WHAT HAS HAPPENED HERE!
MIX ANGER WITH A TOUCH OF FEAR
THE DANGER'S ALL TOO CRYSTAL-CLEAR
JUST LOOK AT YOU!
OUR DARKER SIDE KEEPS BREAKING THROUGH
OBSERVE IT NOW - IN ME AND YOU!
THE EVIL THAT ALL MEN CAN DO MUST BE CONTROLLED!
I BEG OF YOU
I'LL SHOW YOU ALL IT CAN BE DONE!
(Regains his calm)
HERE IS A CHANCE TO TAKE CHARGE OF OUR FATE
DEEP DOWN YOU MUST KNOW THAT TOMORROW'S TOO LATE!
ONE RULE OF LIFE WE CANNOT REARRANGE
THE ONLY THING CONSTANT IS CHANGE
THE ONLY THING CONSTANT...IS CHANGE
Everything that has been said here has opened bad blood. I am sorry your cast and crew has to handle this "drama" in the middle of a show. It started as a "bad review" and now it is much worse than it should be. BUT HEY! Use this anger and frustration during Facade!
Paul Castaneda - You can't deny that you may have handled this poorly. You were so polite to the reviewer "Thanks again for coming". But you attacked the anonymous reviewer? Him being anonymous allowed both of you to be more honest. If you knew his name I bet you would have been much more polite (Like you were with Al Krulick). If you would have left it alone, that person may have given your next show a shot to see improvement. Now you have just scared him away. He also said he came with someone, who knows who that person was. You may have hurt your company. As Simon Stride says inn the original "complete works"
STRIDE
Dr. Jekyll what a really rotten shame. I so hope that what has happened wont destroy your precious name.
Now GOAT Break a leg and leave this mess behind you. I warn you though, this is juicy gossipy stuff and it will take a while to calm down.
Love,
Dalles
On 11/12/2009 7:38:50 PM, Anonymous said:
Well said Dalles. Break a leg in NYC.
On 11/12/2009 7:52:10 PM, Anonymous said:
Thank you Dalles. Some incredible input. :)
On 11/12/2009 9:11:29 PM, Anonymous said:
I think it is inappropriate for a director to post a response to a review. -former GOAT patron
On 11/12/2009 9:59:39 PM, Anonymous said:
I agree!
On 11/12/2009 10:40:59 PM, Anonymous said:
This was some fascinating reading. I have been surprised on several occasions that Mr. Castaneda always wants to "defend" and explain things his reviewers have written. Eventually, those reviewers will stop going to the GOAT so as not to have to deal with him. I saw this production. The GOAT should be commended on tackling such a huge production. Did they pull it off? Not really. Were there good moments? Sure. Was it good overall? No. I found it a step above a high school production. This was my third production I've seen at this theatre, and I keep going back because I truly want them to succeed, but I don't know if I can keep paying for such amatuerish productions. Maybe Mr. castaneda should try to LEARN something from each review and try to improve the quality of his productions. Again, I commend the cast for giving it their best, but unfortunately, their best wasn't quite good enough.
On 11/12/2009 10:50:44 PM, Anonymous said:
i think it is inappropriate for a director to respond to a reviewer publicly as well. unprofessional. i will not be attending anything at the GOAT again.
On 11/13/2009 12:55:22 AM, Anonymous said:
Amazing and entertaining. If I can add a thought (if there are any original ones left)or two: I see no problem with a director engaging a critic in a little back and forth exchange of ideas regarding a critique, whether in a public or private forum. To my way of thinking, there was nothing untoward or unprofessional in his original post. And in re-reading it, I can see that what he seemed to be doing was taking the blame on himself for all the things the critic did not like and leaving to his cast and crew all the things he did like. That could be seen as honorable and might explain the passions this group seem to instill in their cast and crew.
Further, I have seen other directors/groups discuss their reviews with critics on public blogs as well, without any attacks from "the peanut gallery". So I think this may be a case of bashing the "new guys" to an extent. However, getting caught up in a back and forth with anonymous critics and/or descending to their level of name calling is a mistake. Better to rise above, which I believe the director if not his actors/crew did do.
Finally, if I may be permitted to speak out of school a little bit, one commenter mentioned the professionalism aof places like Theatre Downtown, Mad Cow, etc. Having been around town a while, I can tell you that, yes, those places are great...TODAY. But, back in the day, they were not. For example, Theatre Downtown disinvited a certain critic from their hows and even tried to lead a local boycott of her that included buttons, etc. And Mad Cow has at times in the past been less than forthcoming in making payments to actors/crew on promised time tables and in promised amounts. Not exactly, professional. Nor is calling critics to debate reviews as some local theaters have done.
GOAT is the "new kid on the block" and is doing things differently. As an agent of change, they will make some mistakes and also be attacked just for being an agent of such change. Having seen a few shows there, I can tell you they are a welcome addition to the arts community. And the efforts they are making to promote, work with and and aid other theaters is long overdue and to be commended.
On 11/13/2009 1:15:41 AM, Anonymous said:
Whatever...this, too will blow over and those that were never going to keep going to this theater won't and those that were, will. Awesome way to kill some hours on the blogosphere, though!
On 11/13/2009 2:07:04 AM, Anonymous said:
This director is a prime example of a guy who couldn't work well with others, so he had to go off and start his own club. If you keep finding yourself the odd man out, maybe it isn't them. Its you.
On 11/13/2009 8:35:38 AM, Anonymous said:
"The way of the pioneer is always rough.”
* Harvey S. Firestone, founder of Firestone Tire & Rubber Co.
"If you want to make enemies, try to change something.”
* Woodrow Wilson, 28th President of the United States
"If we don't change, we don't grow.
If we don't grow, we are not really living.”
*Gail Sheehy, American Author & Writer
"Everything changes, nothing remains without change.”
* Buddha
On 11/13/2009 8:54:32 AM, Anonymous said:
My God you have all missed the point. This all began because of two things. One is that this theater company has a long history of complaining, defending, and posting against critics and Two because a director instead of letting his work speak for itself decided to have to explain it all no matter how respectfully he "attempted" to do it then bothered to play in the crap above on a continuing and angry basis. As for Mrs Sotis she once very passionately since passion is so important to you above all else defended a cast member against a critics voice. Of course it was her husband she so passionately defended. Please.
On 11/13/2009 8:57:43 AM, Anonymous said:
It's a New Day...END SCENE
On 11/13/2009 10:56:16 AM, Anonymous said:
How embarrassing for all involved. As an Artistic Director myself (in Canada), i was drawn to a posting about this on Facebook. i make it a rule not to engage with reviewers- whether their reviews are good OR bad. It simply gives the reviewers too much credit and power. If i choose to believe the good reviews, then i must believe the bad, too. If a critic hasn't 'gotten' my choices- whether they were made due to budget restraints, casting decisions, or artistic conceptualization- then i must accept that i did not do my job to the best of my (and my team's) ability. i do not chase after a reviewer in order to 'educate them'. i would be ashamed to have cast and board members responding in the manner seen above. And as the AD of a professional company with 35 years of producing shows (27 years before i took over the position) i am always cognizant of the fact that i am publicly speaking for and representing my company and its history and reputation, and should behave in a manner that is professional. Passion belongs in the rehearsal hall and on the stage. Bring detachment to read the reviews.
Trevor Schmidt- Northern Light Theatre
On 11/13/2009 12:08:48 PM, Anonymous said:
I'd have to agree with a good majority of comments on here. However, I don't think it's unprofessional, just tacky. As many have stated, if your directorial choices didn't play to the audience you learn from your mistakes and improve upon them in your next show. You don't to try and defend every choice you made that a critic disliked. Many people probably liked your choices. Theatre is very subjective.
I'd also like to comment on the people who are attacking certain performers. If you didn't like their performance, you don't need to publicly bash it. Maybe they didn't live up to your vision of the character, but that is what makes theatre so beautiful. Every single person brings something new to a role whether you like their choices or not. Orlando is a very small theatre community and it's awful to see people at each others' throats like this. We have to support each other in order to keep the arts alive in our city rather than attacking each other. I hope everyone has learned something from this debacle.
On 11/13/2009 2:39:34 PM, Anonymous said:
I must say the posting at 10:56:16 by Trevor Schmidt is well said on all possible counts and is one of the best of the above posts. But it must also state that the poster continually saying END SCENE represents the worst of the above. You started this. It now has its own energy. Find a way to contain it without demanding people stop voicing in on a subject that began from posting number one.
On 11/13/2009 3:18:55 PM, Anonymous said:
When I was a child, I spake as a child,
I understood as a child, I thought as a child:
but when I became a man, I put away
childish things. For now we see through a
glass, darkly; but then face to face: now
I know in part; but then shall I know even
as also I am known.
THINK about it!
On 11/13/2009 3:38:12 PM, Anonymous said:
3:18 - there is nothing to think about in your statement. You are making a sad attempt to elicit a point but it is foolish, pretentious, and ultimately directionless. Only a child indeed would think a statement such as that would have substance in a conversation such as this. Your bizarre admonition to THINK about it is only the icing on the inanity of your cake.
On 11/13/2009 4:25:41 PM, Anonymous said:
I think everyone needs to grow up....Everyone has their own opinion, so no one is right OR wrong. You can't tell me that how I feel is wrong...it's MY feeling. Maybe some people didn't handle this situation the way you would've wanted them to....who cares? They're not you. There's no book on how to be professional in....oh wait that's right, community theater. Stop putting each other down....We all love art....Why can't we just agree to that and move on?
On 11/13/2009 5:21:37 PM, Anonymous said:
Sorry to disagree with you 4:25 - There are indeed many ways to be professional - all of which have been thrown away in varying posts above. There is a "book" - a book which has been ignored in too many ways. Your insult towards "community theater" is evidence itself you yourself have very little of the professionalism you find so hard to find. "We all love art". Sad that you hold that as a mantra while professionalism goes out the window.
On 11/13/2009 5:45:57 PM, Anonymous said:
booo this thread officially is a downer.
On 11/13/2009 8:14:55 PM, Anonymous said:
You are all disappointing tools giving Orlando a bad name an enforcing the idea that our arts scene is thrid tier backwoods trash. Please stop before you do more damage.
On 11/14/2009 10:00:33 AM, Anonymous said:
Take the review stop complaining stop EXplaining stop arguing stop insulting stop the director posting the cast posting and the board posting.
On 11/14/2009 10:11:08 AM, Anonymous said:
And finally, a mature postscript to this unbelievable blog that gives me hope for the entire theater community in this town and it's REAL supporters and patrons. This was copied from Maupin's blog ABOUT this blog:
"I can't let this go by - - -Sorry.
I saw the original Broadway J&H production -- way back when,
I own and have viewed many times the DVD with der Hassellhoff guy,
(and he does an excellent performace -who even knew he could sing?)
and I have seen a really bad almost high school production on full stage (company shall remain nameless)
- - - - and I saw the Goat Production,
The first two mentioned come in tied first because of the extensive $$$ production values in their respective mediums.
.
GOAT's production was the most enjoyable of the three - even without the stage gimmicks.
It was personal, on target, and in some aspects, due to the closeness of cast and audience, almost overwhelming.
Theater must be valued as judged against itself.
Did it achieve it's purpose?
GOATS presentation more than met those goals.
As a 50 + year member of AEA, I have been in or seen so many shows that I long ago stopped making a list of who and what. My participation now in theatre is limited to being a 'Professional Audience'' member.
And while I have seen my share of bad theater over the years that can't even be justified by the statement that " at least they are trying" - there really is no such thing as bad theater.
Some might be momentarily embarrassing but never bad.
Maybe it''s just me --but my love for the arts just goes to deep within me.
Broadway musicals were my forte' and still are. No matter how trite - give me a good old Carnival, Pajama Game, Stop The World, Roar of the Greaspaint or any Rodgers and Hammerstein production and I am in professional heaven.
Since I moved to Florida 11 years ago I have been amazed at the number of venues and productions mounted each season - nay to say, year around. The talent pool and personal dedication here still boggles my mind.
And to each and everyone posting on here - keep up the good work. The general public is watching, attending, and appreciating all of your works - no matter how good or bad they may be.
Jon M. Walker AEA
Kissimmee, FL."
On 11/14/2009 3:49:23 PM, Anonymous said:
I have not seen this show yet. I am excited to be going on Friday and am really looking forward to the performance. Regardless of if it turns out to be "good" or "bad", I think that some respect should be given to all of the actors and the production crew for all of the time, dedication, and hard work that they have put into the show. Jekyll and Hyde is an ambitious project for a community theater to take on and kudos should be given for that alone. I haven't been involved in community theater for very long- only a couple of years- but I have become very familiar with what it takes to put a production on. These people, every single one of them, deserve credit for showing up and taking on the responsibility of a production (usually for free). So I extend a great big thank you in advance to all the cast and crew. Break a leg! I look forward to your show.
On 11/14/2009 3:57:30 PM, Anonymous said:
That is absolutely PATHETIC anonymous at 10:11am. What you are saying is that ONLY those who support GOAT and loved this show support theater! If you do not or do not agree with their defensive attitude you are against theater. THAT IS TERRIBLE. That is NOT a mature post - it is simply a "Joe Blow" giving their own completely biased view of the show. Unlike the critic here who is PAID TO DO THAT and has been for YEARS and PUTS IT INTO CULTURAL CONTEXT. Perhaps what you see above are the people in this town have just HAD IT with the arguing with critics and with the defensive nature of theaters and their CASTS AND CREWS when it comes to attacking someone who does not like your show most notably GOATS and their ongoing consistency in that.
On 11/14/2009 4:28:41 PM, Anonymous said:
Nice diatribe, 3:57pm...very classy. Use enough capitalization in your post? I am a theater goer and observer of theater, and your leap in logic was pathetic. The poster above obviously meant REAL supporters not because the guy supported GOAT, but because of his mature, erudite and classy way of expressing his thoughts, which you obviously lack. And as for GOAT being the only, take your blinders off, honey. There are many doing it...far as I can tell, GOAT is the only ones getting killed for it by people like you. You are very brave in your namelessness...funny how Betsey's blog has attracted the smarter, more positive and better informed opinions...maybe because they require names. Where's yours? Exactly.
Sincerely,
John Simpson
On 11/14/2009 4:45:57 PM, Anonymous said:
Simpson -
The poster in question goes on to elaborate on how great High School theater is as well and how we should support that. Guess we should take his opinion over the critics above now shall we? Oh look, no caps in my post. And what exactly have you ever done in theatre "John Simpson" besides claiming to be an "observer" ? There was no leap in logic at all there are many posts on Betsy's blog that are mature and classy and erudite yet isn't it funny that the only one reprinted here is a review in itself that praises GOAT? Funny isn't it? Are you possibly either that naive or are you that biased? Why not post quotes such as this from John Baker stating "I think having a theatre critic blog is of great value, but should not be used as a battle ground to 'defend' your own work against a review, as I've seen happen here before (especially during Fringe)"? Or Stephen Miller's which while sympathetic, also gives the same opinion? Or this one from Jeremy Seghers "If your show has received a less-than-favorable review, I guess I just don't see the point in "defending" it. If it had been praised, would you respond with a detailed list of all the areas in which the show could have been improved? I doubt it." or this from Betsy herself "I have always believed that a production should stand by itself, and so should a review. That means that once a review has run, I'm usually not eager to hear defenses of it from those involved or to defend what I have written". Instead, the reposting which was considered mature and of a nature that showed the true theater supporters was merely a treacly positive review from an audience member of the show. Not too hard to see the logical link from that to my posting above.
On 11/14/2009 4:49:15 PM, Anonymous said:
This makes me sad. After moving to the Orlando Theatre community from NYC, I constantly hear from people in the business here about how the quality and professionalism of companies here in Orlando meets or EXCEEDS that in NYC. These pages of posts certainly do nothing for that argument. The review was not bad, the director was not taking offense or going up against the reviewer. I think it shows great moral character to simply go on the record to say that he should take the blame for the choices, NOT the actors. That being said, he should have no reason to. Anyone who has seen live theatre any number of times can usually tell the difference between a poor performance, and poor artistic decisions. I think the review made clear which case he thought this was, and furthermore, the director understood too... hence his comments.
On 11/14/2009 5:20:52 PM, Anonymous said:
Hello Anonymous from NYC. For this most part this is an aberration. But it does indicate a deeper sickness that some refuse to recognize.
On 11/14/2009 9:03:20 PM, Anonymous said:
Mr. NYC, thanks for the post. And of course you were quickly dismissed by the same mr. anonymous who continues to post diatribes against said director and GOAT. I have read and re-read everything here and in Betsey's blog. Although there is much to wince at, I, too, fail to see the venom used against this particular director and this particular theater company. I follow most theater blogs closely and I can tell you that the same rules that seem to apply to this theater company and person seem to be forgotten when the poster is someone else. How....convenient. It has not taken me long to figure out that there is/are person/persons who have decided to dislike and attack this group and person, without any real provocation. How small, indeed.
There are people in this town who would rather tear down anyone they see as "competition" than build a true community of artists. They, too, will fade into the ether...left behind in their venom. There are too many artists working TOGETHER now to allow those voices of dissension, shallowness and fear that speak from a broken self image to win the day. Thank God for that.
And I invite you all to go back to Betsy's blog and look for the venom or childish antics you see here. You will not find them. Better class of folks,I suppose. Maybe we should all stick there. They know how to disagree without destroying.
I invite you again to read this director's original post and his posts on Betsy's blog and tell me where you saw venom or pettiness. You won't find it.
I pity the majority of the posters here, who's acerbic comments drip with intended brutality towards their fellow artists. Of course, with their condescension, they probably see nobody as equal to them. Hell, the person above belittles high school productions AND apparently believes that those that don't agree with his little rule book of theater etiquette has a "sickness".
Again nothing but pity and bemusement for those so obviously lacking in the ability to embrace differing opinions or capable of intelligent conversation. Again NYC, thanks for your clarity and I hope you continue to give Orlando a chance. There are many fine, supportive theaters and artists like Theatre Downtown, Breakthrough Theatre, Orlando Rep, John DiDonna and Empty Spaces, Playwrights Round Table and GOAT to name but a few. These folks are COMMITTED to sustaining and helping each other and not to the petty DESTRUCTIVENESS you see above. Many of them if not all have put their money where there mouths are to support each other unlike the buffoonish experts like 4:45 and 5:20 above to name but a few.
On 11/14/2009 10:44:59 PM, Anonymous said:
First of all, I celebrated and welcomed the blogger who was originally from NYC. I did not dismiss him/her at all - just let htem know that this comment line is an aberration and is not a familiar thing with other theaters in the area. I invite you to go back and reread other blog lines, on Betsy's as a matter of fact, where this same director and his casts, board members, etc go into attack mode because of a review. Then you will see it is a pattern with this one group. The funny thing is, I only have three postings above, but it is much easier to lump everyone who disagrees with you and imagine it is only one person who takes issue rather than multiples. THAT is funny and very short sighted.
On 11/14/2009 11:16:00 PM, Anonymous said:
10:44...Funny how you never addressed the supportive nature of some theaters (including the one here you can't help but to keep posting about) and people as opposed to the vitriolic rapid fire attacks emanating from other areas. Yes, if you check Betsey's blogs you will also see others commenting on their reviews as well, both good and bad without attack. You are a hypocrite. But like I said to NY, it won't matter. Those that actually treat people well, support their fellow artists and push the boundaries of creativity and change will always win out against the voices of exclusion, judgment, self righteousness and lack. Again, I pity you. You are the one who are small and short-sighted and who's moment in the sun (this blog) will soon end, while those that create, those in the actual arena, those supportive of others will prevail. Please, keep yourself hidden. It's best for whatever reputation it is you think you have or may have.
On 11/14/2009 11:27:30 PM, Anonymous said:
Your commentary just now is what makes this very very humorous and very very sad. Mr. Castenada, you are very fast on that trigger yourself.
On 11/15/2009 12:10:13 AM, Anonymous said:
I have never been to GOAT before last sunday to see J&H, but I will say I thought it was WONDERFUL and I had such a great time watching all of these people on stage doing what they really LOVE to do. -Terra :)
On 11/15/2009 12:32:12 AM, Anonymous said:
11:27PM, do you ever get tired of being wrong AND wrong headed? "Mr. Castenada"?!? Guess again, Nostradamus. But I'm sure that was an intended "bad guess" meant to insult my 11:16 post AND besmirch the name of the very first poster on this thread...again. Unfortunately for you, anyone with a brain can see through your inane and childish antics and lack of a coherent response to what is actually posted.
On 11/15/2009 12:40:55 AM, Anonymous said:
Not Productive.
On 11/15/2009 12:46:50 AM, Anonymous said:
Let me throw a few words in here if I may. The whole thing began when Paul decided to post a letter to the critic. I have to agree that it was respectful - very much so. However I do have to say that it did come off as trying to explain things out - something an artist should not have to do. Nuff said. No one can blame the person if they wanted to, even though it may not have been a desirable thing to do. The continuing s***storm seemed to occur when people posted an opposite viewpoint, and then were attacked for doing so, and unfortunately those individuals were cast members of the show being reviewed above, and Paul in a very human way reacted defensively as well. There might have been a million better ways to do it, unfortunately that is not what occurred. It is best to understand that when posting anywhere, be it anonymously or with a name, that courtesy should prevail - and that is to not just the originator of the article but also to those who posted their own viewpoints. The negativity spawned negativity and this is what we are left with. The original review was actually a very good one in many ways, but what has followed was not. So how does one get out of this situation? How about we just let this die, and try to learn from it as best we can?
On 11/15/2009 12:53:55 AM, Anonymous said:
AMEN
On 11/15/2009 2:28:18 PM, Anonymous said:
I now officially with I had never commented on this post in the first place. It has turned from an act of voicing opinion, to a verbal massacre. I take back any (and all) things I've said on this thread. I do support all Orlando theatre, and my opinions are my own....not associated with the opinions of GOAT, or its members. It was never supposed to escalate, and I sincerely apologize for my previous lack of professionalism. It was a learning experience, but unfortunately, it came with a body count. Regards. -Adam McCabe
On 11/15/2009 2:55:32 PM, Anonymous said:
I wish this would all end. It has totally grown to epic proportions, and has hurt alot of people. Paul Castaneda is a good man who supports and promotes local theatre more than anyone I know. Is this really accomplishing anything? Please let it go.-Wade Hair
On 11/15/2009 3:02:05 PM, Anonymous said:
The question becomes this. After a brilliant posting above by anonymous at 12:46am, followed by someone's (not mine) amen, why did two people need to breathe life into it all again? Letting it die is letting it die. Unless there is something earth shattering to say that no one has thought of before and will be the equivalent of the second coming, let this be the last post please. If you continue to post, you obviously want the controversy to continue.
On 11/15/2009 3:19:59 PM, Anonymous said:
No, I don't want the controversy to continue. I was simply stating an apology so I may continue to perform among the local Orlando theatre community without maintaining a tarnished reputation due to something so silly. Nothing is worth sacrificing what makes me happiest in life. -Adam McCabe
On 11/15/2009 3:30:41 PM, Anonymous said:
Last words huh? Damage is done. Move on and it will dissapear.
On 11/15/2009 6:21:59 PM, Anonymous said:
I like pie.
On 11/16/2009 1:30:40 AM, Steve Schneider said:
Me, too. Especially with cold milk, which is what I've been using to try to wash down that comment about there being "no bad theater." Two whole quarts, and it's still lodged like a tennis ball in my trachea.
On 11/16/2009 8:56:16 AM, Anonymous said:
Milk makes you flemmy Steve. Try some wonderfully craptastic avant-garde theatre written by a high school student to wash that quote down.
On 11/16/2009 9:39:15 AM, Anonymous said:
I totally thought this thread was about russian mail order brides. I was wrong. If someone could find me a R-MOB, I'll give them the fourth season of One Tree Hill on DVD for free. Concurrently, if you find me a ukranian-MOB (or a U-MOB), I'll give you the complete series of Wonderfalls. Fair trade? Oh... this thread isn't about mail order brides? Sorry, I lost about 50 IQ points from the start of this thread til the very end, so I must be mistaken. LONGEST. THREAD. EVER. And, I'm choosing Anonymous... because he's written so much great poetry and music over the years that I would be honored to act as his representative on this post today.
On 11/16/2009 9:47:34 AM, Lamar said:
That's "phlegmy" for those listening at home.
On 11/16/2009 10:53:04 AM, Anonymous said:
My world, my spelling you effin know-it-all.
On 11/16/2009 12:26:23 PM, Anonymous said:
You see we can keep this going for as long as we choose. That's the power of the "Freedom" that the director and others thought they had when they started this. See it doesn't end just because you don't like what it has become. You created this terror and now you want to end it? If only there was a musical based off of that very thought. Hmmmm. As for the comments themselves the director had all the rights in America to post what he wanted. Was it necessary? No, but he needed to take blame for anything people didn't like. So his troupe would not take the blame. However, that's what you sign up for when you join a theater project (no pun intended). Everyone involved in the show has to take whatever we the viewers choose to express about them. That's the beauty of personal opinion. Adam said "everyone has one" (as he so colorfully shown us and said "sorry" for) so if we all have one, then yeah, except it. The critic about Lucy was, in my thoughts, right on. She was somewhat off, simple as that. But, she's obviously still just begining in theater and shouldn't be poked at too harshly. But she doesn't seem like a child either, so she doesn't need people patting her on the head saying,"Don't listen to that mean-o-man." The only way she'll grow is with criticism (Good & Evil) No one on that stage was professional (GOAT wouldn't be able to afford it)but they have exactly what you'd expect from a community theater, a place to grow. So we'll let them grow and keep pounding out comments day after day. As they perform, we'll chat, and argue and love it. And they will learn and grow from it all.
On 11/16/2009 1:21:39 PM, Anonymous said:
Yes, but why keep it going poster if it is not productive? Just to exhibit "freedom"? And where is the responsiblity in that? If this was a productive discussion all the more, but it has not, and will not become by magic, a discourse on anything but negativity. I am not involved with this show, but am a member of our community. This is not worth it.
On 11/16/2009 4:53:00 PM, Anonymous said:
I have an idea, if you want this thread to end, just stop checking it.
On 11/18/2009 5:44:04 PM, Anonymous said:
On an unrelated note, Glee is on tonight on FOX. Are we all excited!?
On 11/19/2009 12:16:19 PM, Anonymous said:
i totally agree, quit helping it and just go see the show for yourself and decide. Who cares what anyone else thinks
On 11/19/2009 1:51:53 PM, Anonymous said:
GLEE IS AMAZING!! I'm excited!! :D
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