Sing us a song, you’re the piano men
Often when you hear of a last-minute cast substitution for an upcoming performance, it gives rise to concern. Who will take over the role? Will it still be magical? Can they fill the shoes (or piano seat, as it were)?
Last week, Portland was treated to a rare treat when the Wednesday night performance of the Tony-winning Movin’ Out featured one of the original Broadway cast members, Wade Preston, in the role of the piano man. And on Tuesday and Thursday nights, the role was filled by Matthew Friedman, who played at Billy Joel’s wedding not so long ago. (Mr. Preston was especially taken by the Kotzschmar Organ; he raved after being given the dime tour of the organ’s insides that he’d never seen such an impressive specimen and he insisted on returning for some FOKO performances this summer.)
This role is wonderfully conceived. It is not so much about “being” Billy Joel, as being a thoughtful interpreter of his music with the cast members’ own personality and skill shining through. For those of you who did not notice the dynamic Piano Men, you were probably too busy watching Twyla Tharp’s choreography and the absolutely, amazing dancing cast. All who were there over those three nights shared a “Portland State of Mind….”
Share your thoughts on the show using the comments feature below.
Barb Hager says:
What a delightful and surprising evening! The set, with the band and two pianos up in the loft at the back of the stage, allowed maximum space for dance. And what dance! Athletic, muscular, graceful dancers at times seemed to be Russian ballet dancers telling the story with their bodies, and then they would break into jazzy dance moves we’ve never seen before! Twyla Tharp’s direction and choreography lured us to the show and Billy Joel’s music seemed the perfect vehicle. The piano man’s voice and playing ability carried us from scene to scene and two hours sped by; but wait! During the final encores that piano man broke into a piano boogie so spirited that he seemed to be “riding” rather than playing. It was astounding! Congratulations on booking this wonderful show. We hope you repeat your dance series every year. Bring this company back for an encore and let’s hope the newspaper sends a reviewer next time!