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A fantastic staging of a great song cycle by Pasek and Paul, with a talented cast of performers in a small, intimate venue, produced by an up and coming, exciting production team! Summary
Rating
Excellent
A beautiful four-person song cycle created by Tony nominated Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (Dear Evan Hansen, The Greatest Showman) in their Sophomore Year at the University of Michigan, Edges explores different perspectives of young adults as they embark on the edge of the rest of their lives. It asks questions about relationships, family, parenthood, careers and is a relatable and heartfelt exploration of what it is to be a normal, flawed human navigating life.
Produced by new and exciting production company Taylor Jay Productions, led by Taylor Jay, at the intimate Phoenix Arts Club, Edges showcases a talented cast who work together well to create stunning harmonies and duets, along with excellent solos, accompanied and musically directed by Ben Ward.
Holly Adams portraying Woman 1, and Maia Gough as Woman 2, are particularly stunning in their rendition of ‘Ready To Be Loved’, whilst Adams demonstrates great comedic range and character in ‘In Short’ and Gough shows gorgeous emotion throughout, especially in ‘I’ve Gotta Run’. Similarly, Cameron Collins as Man 1, and Gareth Evans, as Man 2, offer beautiful vocal tones and skill throughout their solo numbers and duets. Collins is especially impressive having only stepped into the role two days prior. Both displayed great character and all four cast members utilise the space well.
The Phoenix Arts Club is a lovely venue that works brilliantly, however this production deserves a larger audience. The staging, which is beautiful and intimate, would have worked better with more people, particularly when using the small stage in the centre; there are moments that the direction and lighting design are wonderfully suited to being performed in the round like this. However, the cast work with the direction really well and maintain their emotion and humour whilst using the entirety of the space even with a slightly smaller audience.
I’d also have enjoyed more ensemble numbers from the score as they worked incredibly well and the harmonies by all four performers were stunning. The concept of the song cycle is introduced excellently with their opening number and concludes with a beautiful quartet. Interspersed with emotional, amusing solos, and powerful duets this talented cast do a fantastic job performing some moving songs.
Edges is a beautiful and thoughtful look at young adults feeling on the edge of their lives, performed by four exceptionally talented actors. Taylor Jay Productions has created a great format with this staged musical at a perfect venue and I can’t wait to see what they create next!
Creative Team:
Production/Direction: Taylor Jay
Musical Direction: Ben Ward
Casting/Co-Production: Benjamin Dwyer
Casting Assistant: Ty Sawyer
Edges has completed its current run at The Phoenix Arts Club.
