Are the actors? or musicians? They're both...

[IndyanaTekkie]

What does everyone think about this sudden thing where the cast of a show plays musical instruments on stage. Recently a new version of Sweeney Todd came out where they have half the size of a normal cast, and all of the actors on stage are playing musical instruments, therefore being their own pit. And now, I've recently read that a production of Company is going to be doing the same thing, starring Raul Esparza.

What do you all think? Do you think its a good idea? Does it take away from the acting? Does it add more interest to the show?

[Randy]

This may stem from the musicians strike of last year. If the musicians are causing strife, leave it to producers to find a way around them.

[Eric_Bryant]

Doesn't bother me any more than a character suddenly breaking into song in a musical. As long as the actors can a) play their instruments well enough, and b) it's done in such a way that it doesn't disrupt the action of the play, then I say go for it.

For theaters that fall under it's guidelines, I thought there used to be an Equity rule against this...does anyone happen to know? And are the actors paid as both actors and musicians? I would imagine the union negotiations would be deterrent enough.

[tamararulon]

Well, it certainly does take a great deal of talent to do it all!
I think it's one thing to have a show originally created that way... and it's something entirely different to alter/rearrange a show to make it that way....
I don't know if it's a good idea or not... I think I'd have to actually see it before making a judgement.
I don't think it would really add more interest to the show, but it is adding something "different".

Not the same, but I think a similar illustration: I saw Into the Woods at Footlite early 90's... beautiful, gorgeous costumes and set, fun!
Just after that, my college put it on... no set, no costumes, no props... dressed in black and white and holding scripts (in black binders). I enjoyed the version at college (dare I say) just as much.
Two completely different productions of the same show.

So, I think I need to see a production before really passing a "judgement" as to whether or not something works.

And man... to have the talent to do it all! I'm envious of those who can!!

[LizC]

I've never heard of that before! I've certainly seen or been part of shows where the band is part of the goins-on (Pump Boys and Dinettes, for example). It sound slike it may be odd- it's one thing to break out in song and another to whip out a musical instrument and start playing!

Interesting...

[IndyanaTekkie]

The only times I've played onstage and performed in a show have been in Music Man (Trombone) and Jesus Christ Superstar (Euphonium, French Horn, and Trumpet). I enjoy doing that because it gives me a chance to incorporate my instrumental side, my acting/singing side, my dancing side all into one show. I don't mind doing it, provided its done right.

[kries]

Jeremy, you are a true triple threat! Such a talent!

Missed you last night at the board meeting. It was an interesting evening. ;D;

[DanaC]

i think it's super cool!!!, But they just add it so the audience will go 'ooooo they're playing their instruments too?!'... which is something i definately would say. i think that Sweeney Todd looks amazing! i've seen clips on broadwayworld.com and the cast looks amazing!

[IndyanaTekkie]

Jeremy, you are a true triple threat! Such a talent!

Missed you last night at the board meeting. It was an interesting evening. ;D;

Karla, email me off board and fill me in!

Jeremy