Redwood: A Scaling Endeavor with Lofty Aspirations
Introduction:
"Redwood," a musical gracing the Nederlander Theatre, is an ambitious passion project conceived by Tony Award-winning actress Idina Menzel. Inspired by the story of Julia Butterfly Hill, the musical seeks to explore grief, solace, and the transformative power of nature through the journey of a grieving mother.
Premise:
Jesse (Menzel), a grief-stricken mother reeling from the loss of her wayward son, embarks on a journey from New York to California. Along the way, she encounters a redwood forest, where she finds solace and a newfound connection to the towering trees. Befriending scientists Finn and Becca, Jesse ventures into the world of tree climbing, seeking to ascend to the heights of these arboreal giants.
Concept:
"Redwood" weaves together elements of personal loss, environmentalism, and the pursuit of healing. It attempts to convey the profound impact nature can have on the human spirit, particularly in times of intense sorrow. The show’s lofty ambitions aim to inspire audiences to reflect on their own personal connections to the natural world.
Performance:
Menzel delivers a captivating performance as Jesse, showcasing her exceptional vocal abilities and emotional depth. She effortlessly conveys Jesse’s vulnerability, determination, and longing for connection. The supporting cast, including Michael Park, Khaila Wilcoxon, and Zachary Noah Piser, provide strong performances, each bringing their unique talents and perspectives to the stage.
Music:
Composer Kate Diaz’s score for "Redwood" is a blend of soaring ballads and new-age anthems. While Diaz’s efforts aim to enhance the emotional resonance of the story, the relentless string of power ballads often overshadows the characters’ struggles and sentiments.
Visuals:
Jason Ardizzone-West’s wrap-around scenic design features stunning projections of verdant woodlands, creating an immersive forest backdrop. However, the reliance on projections sometimes distracts from the emotional core of the narrative. Melecio Estrellas’ vertical choreography, while impressive, is underutilized, leaving audiences longing for more dynamic and captivating tree-climbing sequences.
Criticisms:
Despite its well-intentioned premise, "Redwood" falls short of achieving its lofty aspirations. The story becomes repetitive and predictable, and the musical numbers, while technically proficient, fail to elevate the emotional impact of the characters’ journeys. The attempt to connect grief with environmentalism feels contrived, and the message becomes diluted as a result.
Conclusion:
"Redwood" is an ambitious musical that ultimately fails to deliver on its promise. While Menzel’s performance is undeniable, the overwrought score and underdeveloped storyline hold back the show’s potential. Audiences seeking a meaningful exploration of grief and the power of nature may be left disappointed by this earthbound production.
