THEATRE REVIEW: "Empire" at New World Stages (New York, NY)

      On the afternoon of September 18th, 2024 I saw a performance of the musical "Empire" at Stage 1 of New World Stages in New York City.  This is an Off-Broadway Production that began previews July 1st, 2024, opened July 11th, and will close September 22nd.  "Empire" (the musical) is about the people who built, or inspired the building, of the Empire State Building.  While I wasn't expecting the musical to be amazing (I read a couple reviews), I was still a little disappointed in the show.  However, I did enjoy the show, and the historical relevance of an iconic building being constructed during such turbulent times.  






     When I saw "Empire," the cast included Danny Iktomi Bevins (Jesse Bland), April Ortiz (Mohawk-Grandmother/Hazel/Speakeasy Chanteuse), Jessica Ranville (Sylvie Lee), Kaitlyn Davidson (Frances Belle "Wally" Wolodsky), Paul Salvatoriello (Al Smith), Howard Kaye (John J. Raskob/Abe Klayman), Albert Guerzon (Charles Kinney), Joel Douglas (Billy Betts), Devin Cortez (Joe Pakulski/Mayor Walker), Ethan Saviet (Paolo de Caprio), Robbie Serrano (Matteo Menzo), J. Savage (Ethan O'Dowd), Morgan Cowling (Emily O'Dowd/Lois), Alexandra Frohlinger (Goodie Goodheart/Mrs. Janet Arthur), and Kiana Kabeary (Rudy Shaw/Rayne).  Joseph Fierberg and Kennedy Perez were ensemble members.  The cast was terrific, without a doubt.  I just think the material they had to work with was, at times, a bit of a setback. 



     

Marquee for New World Stages, and signage for "Empire."  I took this photo. 


          The scenic designer for this production was Walt Spangler.  Jamie Roderick designed the lighting.  For the most part, both of these... designs... were beyond impressive.  At other times, they left me with no choice but to avert my eyes.  For instance, a large window pane hung suspended over the center of the stage, and a blinding spotlight would sometimes shine through it--TOWARDS the audience.  That was an unusual collaborative decision, in my opinion.  Also, some of the scenes would take place off- stage, at one side of the proscenium or the other.  So the actors would be carrying-on with a scene, in period clothing (brilliantly designed by Tina McCartney), with an "exit" sign above, and carpeting below.  It just didn't add up.  







     



     It turns out I've been to New World Stages before.  However, this was back in the summer of 2005, when it was called Dodger Stages.  An Off-Broadway musical comedy called "Altar Boyz" had recently opened there, and my grandma (Grannie) and I went to see it.  I remember we were in a smaller theatre, and not Stage 1.  It must have been one of the other four theatres that are housed within New World Stages.  It is a very impressive place.  Part of the lobby is also an art gallery of sorts.  



POV Playbill Photo I took from my seat at New World Stages. 



     While this production is definitely the Off-Broadway Premiere of "Empire," I'm Not sure whether or not it is the World Premiere.  I think it is possible.  I feel mean for saying this, but the show has flaws that are typical for a World Premiere.  But I hope this show, and the cast, has a bright future.  Not bright like the spotlight shining through the window pane, but brighter.  I remember a couple of scenes where it sounded like the floor of the stage was sticky, judging from the noises the actors' shoes made.  But they didn't let that distract them from the whatever was going on in the scene.  








     While this was not my favorite musical, I'm grateful to have won the ticket lottery (again), and having gotten to see it.  I'm also grateful to my mom and dad for paying for the ticket... and train fare.  I've learned today that a mediocre musical doesn't put a damper on my day in the city, or extinguish the shining light that is my gratitude.   I would make a windowpane metaphor next, but I don't want to infringe upon anyone's creative liberties.




A scene from "Empire."  Photo by Matthew Murphy. 




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