(Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts; Orlando FL) There’s something magical about The Music Man. Meredith Willson’s story of a traveling conman who finds love and redemption in small-town Iowa has been a classic for generations. Normally, it’s presented with full staging, choreography, and big set pieces, but this version, The Music Man in Concert, was all about the music. Without the full staging, the spotlight shifted to the songs themselves, letting the audience really soak in the clever lyrics, harmonies, and vocal talent on display.
And what talent it was! Two of the youngest performers completely stole my heart. Finn Dancaescu (Winthrop Paroo) and Lyric Garden (Amaryllis) gave such sincere and charismatic portrayals that it’s hard not to feel excited about the bright future of the arts here in Central Florida. They were joined by Abby Yuska, Abigail Piekos, Xavi Dancaescu, Logan Stanley, and Axel Rimmele. They were an energetic group who brought enthusiasm, expressive faces, and nonstop joy into every scene they touched.
McKenzie Pollock was stunning as Marian Paroo. Her strong, clear vocals carried beautifully through the theater and her presence was absolutely captivating. On the other side, Christopher Fahmie’s Harold Hill had this deep, resonant baritone that was such a pleasure to listen to. It gave his performance a weight that balanced nicely against Marian’s soaring voice.
The women’s ensemble (Kal Jassoy, Emily Crain, Ainsley Newton, Colleen Murphy, Isabella Blohme, and Elaina Dixon) deserve a big shoutout too. They moved like a flock of birds, perfectly tuned to each other’s timing and energy. Their enthusiasm and coordination made their scenes especially fun to watch.
But for me, the true standout of the evening was the men’s quartet: Bryan Adams, Ben Anderson, Cody Mathewson, and Tripp Carter. Their barbershop harmonies were absolutely phenomenal... tight, crisp, and rich with texture. Every time they sang, the audience was treated to some of the best live harmonies I’ve ever heard. It was the kind of performance that makes you lean forward in your seat and smile the entire time.
Yes, the concert version is different. There’s less story and spectacle, but in return, you get this beautiful, focused attention on the music itself. And if that’s what you came for, Central Florida Vocal Arts absolutely delivered. It was joyful, heartfelt, and a wonderful reminder of why The Music Man remains such a beloved piece of American musical theater.
And what talent it was! Two of the youngest performers completely stole my heart. Finn Dancaescu (Winthrop Paroo) and Lyric Garden (Amaryllis) gave such sincere and charismatic portrayals that it’s hard not to feel excited about the bright future of the arts here in Central Florida. They were joined by Abby Yuska, Abigail Piekos, Xavi Dancaescu, Logan Stanley, and Axel Rimmele. They were an energetic group who brought enthusiasm, expressive faces, and nonstop joy into every scene they touched.
McKenzie Pollock was stunning as Marian Paroo. Her strong, clear vocals carried beautifully through the theater and her presence was absolutely captivating. On the other side, Christopher Fahmie’s Harold Hill had this deep, resonant baritone that was such a pleasure to listen to. It gave his performance a weight that balanced nicely against Marian’s soaring voice.
The women’s ensemble (Kal Jassoy, Emily Crain, Ainsley Newton, Colleen Murphy, Isabella Blohme, and Elaina Dixon) deserve a big shoutout too. They moved like a flock of birds, perfectly tuned to each other’s timing and energy. Their enthusiasm and coordination made their scenes especially fun to watch.
But for me, the true standout of the evening was the men’s quartet: Bryan Adams, Ben Anderson, Cody Mathewson, and Tripp Carter. Their barbershop harmonies were absolutely phenomenal... tight, crisp, and rich with texture. Every time they sang, the audience was treated to some of the best live harmonies I’ve ever heard. It was the kind of performance that makes you lean forward in your seat and smile the entire time.
Yes, the concert version is different. There’s less story and spectacle, but in return, you get this beautiful, focused attention on the music itself. And if that’s what you came for, Central Florida Vocal Arts absolutely delivered. It was joyful, heartfelt, and a wonderful reminder of why The Music Man remains such a beloved piece of American musical theater.
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