Even without dialogue, the new show at the Vagabond Theatre manages to speak to the hearts of all kinds of audiences.
“Listen to My Heart: The Songs of David Friedman” is a musical review that highlights the songs of the famous composer, which include Disney hits for “Beauty and the Beast,” “Aladdin,” “Pocahontas” and “Mulan.”
“David [Friedman] writes extraordinarily intricate music,” said Tom Wyatt, the show?s director. “Some of the group harmonies are difficult. They don?t come easily to singers, and so the show isn?t done a whole lot. He was thrilled that someone would take the challenge and perform for Baltimore audiences.”
The nine-player show doesn?t have a traditional set or story, but Wyatt said the songs alone are enough to keep everyone entertained.
“Every song he writes is a little one-act play. There is a depth of honest emotion that is relatable and actable,” Wyatt said.
Special attention was paid to lighting and costumes because of the absence of plot. “The visuals of how the actors are staged and lit becomes extra important,” Wyatt said. “Lights reflect the emotions of the songs.”
Shirley Bell, the publicist for the Vagabond Theatre, had been impressed just by the rehearsals. “The music is just terrific,” she said. “It?s amazing the sounds that come out of that theater when those singers are performing.”
The songs are meant to appeal to everyone in the audience.
“The songs include subjects like the pros and cons of staying at home to take care of your husband, personal neurosis both comical and sad,” Wyatt said. “There is a song about loving your child and a song about hating your mother.”
The ensemble cast features local actors Shannon Wollman, Beth Weber, Dan Johnson, Holly Pasciullo, Alyson Shirk, Elizabeth Ruddy, Chuck Graham, Ken Ewing, Dennis Wood and Jeff Burch.
“If you are a lover of music and theater and interested in discovering a new musical voice, this is the place to do it,” Wyatt said.
If you go
Listen to My Heart: The Songs of David Friedman
» Venue: Vagabond Players, 806 S. Broadway, Fells Point
» Times: Through Feb. 11, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.
» Cost: $18 to $20
» More info: 410-563-9135
