Marriott Theatre’s ‘Titanic The Musical’ Is A Ship Of Dreams
Titanic The Musical is a rich experience for both your eyes and your ears! This new production at Marriott Theatre is one that you need to make time to see.
I remember when the film Titanic came out in the movie theaters. It was late 1997 and all anyone could talk about was James Cameron’s feat and the real underwater footage of the ship. Titanic was on everyone’s lips, and for many – including myself – it was the first significant introduction to the history.
At the same time that all of this chatter was going on about the movie in 1997, Titanic The Musical was produced on Broadway. The musical was released in April 1997 and the film in December of the same year. So, to be clear, the musical, which won Best Musical at the 1997 Tony Awards, was performed before the movie – but because of the two colliding, I recall that the publicity skewed far more towards the film (granted, it was a huge blockbuster). This is why I am so glad that Marriott Theatre has chosen to add the musical to their current season – and it is playing now.
Titanic The Musical is a story of what happened during the ship’s maiden voyage from Southampton, England on April 10, 1912, through its unfortunate collision with an iceberg and ultimate sinking on April 15, 1912. It highlights the excitement during the initial boarding of the crew and passengers from each class, general amusement and luxury while sailing, challenges that the crew dealt with, constant pushing by the New Line manager for the captain to sail the ship faster (to create new records in sailing), and later, the iceberg crash, choices of who should be saved, and the aftermath.
This is an outstanding production. Everything from the beautiful costumes to the sound design to the lighting is immaculately depicted to highlight the intentions, narrative, and emotions seen on stage. From the red hot lighting and specific actor movements in the coal room onboard to the blues and greens during the tragedy as people are moved into the lifeboats, it is easy to know where you are and get carried away in it.
The ensemble is immensely talented and manages the songs, some of which are extremely vocally demanding and layered, with visible ease. Everyone on stage is excellent, but a few stand out even further. Darian Goulding (as intense coal worker Barrett), Lillian Castillo (as a funny 2nd class passenger admiring the 1st class celebrities), and Matthew Hommel (in a few roles, but primarily Harold Bride, the radio officer), as well as the gentlemen who play Captain Smith, Mr. Ismay, and Mr. Andrews (David, Girolmo, Adam Pelty, and Christopher Kale Jones) each leave a lasting impression.
The stage is set with lifeboats hovering overhead, ropes, white-handled railings, and various other small items that let you know that you are on a ship. You also often hear the waves crashing quietly in the background. The cast is large and the choreography and blocking of the actors make you marvel at how big this ship must be. And as a bonus, the talented cast with all their voices and harmonies knock you back in your seat more than once – in the best way possible.
Then there is the orchestra in their dark room behind one section of the audience. I usually appreciate every orchestra and their ability to feel the music and flow with what happens on stage, but this score feels even more demanding than some. A fantastic job was done by all.
When you book your tickets to see Titanic The Musical, consider stopping by the White Star Grill restaurant popup beforehand. My daughter and I got to try a few items from the menu before seeing the show. I enjoyed the Poached King Salmon, which had a seasoned sear and moist flakiness. My daughter liked the Short Rib, which she described as flavorful and fall-apart tender. We both also loved the Petit Mocha dessert, which was a rich and crunchy chocolate layered treat.
This production of Titanic The Musical is beautifully staged, incredibly lit and costumed, and the cast is amazing. It’s time to make some room for this musical in your life!
