LINICOLNSHIRE, Ill.—It was supposed to be unsinkable, so when the Titanic hit an iceberg and sank into the icy waters of the Atlantic Ocean, the horrific disaster became the stuff of legend. Now it’s playing in a spectacular production at the Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire, Illinois.
A Tragedy Dramatized
The remnants of the sunken ship were discovered off the coast of Newfoundland in 1985. It ignited cultural interest in the ship and its history. The artifacts found in the wreckage inspired Maury Yeston to compose a stage production. He believed that humanity’s attempt to build the Titanic, a technological wonder of its time, was the stuff of dreams and worthy of staging. He persuaded Peter Stone to write a libretto for the show, which opened on Broadway in April 1997 and won five Tony Awards.
Although the harrowing story of the doomed ship remains the same as that of the 1997 film, the big difference between the silver screen presentation and the Marriott’s production is in its main characterization. While the James Cameron film featured the fictional characters of Jack (Leonardo DiCaprio) and Rose (Kate Winslet) as lovers on the ill-fated voyage, the musical is based on the real-life people aboard the ship.
While the original Broadway production had a large scenic design and a full orchestra, the Marriott production has been scaled down to more modest dimensions. It has a small orchestra and an ensemble half the size of the original 43 performers. These modifications make the musical more intimate and heartwarming without robbing any of its power.
Indeed, the show, which was mounted in celebration of the Marriott’s 50th anniversary, is as spectacular and stunning as the story it tells. Masterfully directed and choreographed by Connor Gallagher, and with Ryan T. Nelson’s musical direction, the show is mesmerizing.
While working on Marriott’s theater-in-the-round may be more challenging than a typical proscenium stage, scenic designer Collette Pollard does an extraordinary job of creating the feel of a large seafaring vessel. Jesse Klug’s lighting with Michael Daly’s sound design creates a spellbinding atmosphere of tension and suspense. The combination of those artistic talents delivers an amazing, breathtaking atmosphere of a ship taking on water and twisting on its side.
Many in the cast of 21 play more than one role. These superb actors grab our attention and our heartfelt empathy. In the featured role of Capt. Smith, David Girolmo, one of Chicago’s most gifted performers, is riveting. Other compelling portrayals include Adam Pelty as J. Bruce Ismay, Darian Goulding as Benjamin Guggenheim, Heidi Kettenring as Ida Straus, Mark David Kaplan as her husband Isidor Straus, Erica Stephan as Kate McGowan, and Charles Lightoller as John Jacob Astor.
The period costumes by Sully Ratke with wigs and makeup by Miguel A. Armstrong give a strong impression of the class differences between upper level and lower level passengers, as well as a terrific feel for the early 20th century.
The performers aren’t just in top acting form. They also deliver wonderful vocalizations of Yeston’s many beautiful and haunting melodies. While most musicals feature a few good tunes, this “Titanic” provides over a dozen musical numbers that will move audiences to emotion and even tears. Among them are memorable songs, including “What a Remarkable Age This Is,” “To Be a Captain,” “The Night was Alive,” “Doing the Latest Rag,” “The Blame,” “Autumn,” “We’ll Meet Tomorrow,” and the poignant “Godspeed Titanic.”
Although this popular musical production was a big hit on Broadway, theater companies rarely mount “Titanic The Musical.” The spectacular show makes huge demands on artistic talent. It’s also so costly to produce that only deep pockets can consider presenting it. That the Marriott has mounted the show is an exemplary theatrical achievement. The fact that it is such an awesome, passionate presentation makes it even more credit-worthy.
This is a show that only comes around once in a great while. Rush to see it while you can!
