Tag Archives: Musical

3 Reasons to see MILF: The Musical

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1. The cast is incredible. The supporting players include many talented friends of mine, and the titular character is played by Magnetic Theatre stand-out, Tracey Johnston-Crum.

2. Lucia Del Vecchio thrilled me with “The Evolution of Woman,” and I can’t wait to see what she’s cooked up here. The housewife scene was one the funniest parts of “Evolution,” and seems very natural to choose that environment for this new musical story. ( I unfortunately I am not familiar with the work of Holiday Childress, but if you are and like his work, consider that reason 2b.)

3. But wait a second Nathan, are you saying you haven’t seen this yet? Then why are you recommending it?

This last reason is slightly selfish. I want to see more musicals happen in Asheville. And maybe if people go and spend money on this, musicals (especially original ones) will start to gain more traction. Because as Cabaret taught us, money makes the world go ’round. But what that means is a lot of good can come from it having a successful run. I would love to see more (especially original) musicals produced, more people introduced the form (in all it’s forms), and less of an “other” attitude when we think about the idea of telling stories with song.

So go see it!
Nathan Hathaway Adams

“This Is Not Over Yet”

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[After I wrote this post, I wrote a follow up post here.]

Yesterday, North Carolina passed Amendment One. I am deeply saddened by this. Do I see this Amendment as prejudiced? Yes. Do I see everyone who voted for it as a bigot? No. I hope that everyone can find a way to have helpful and respectful dialog in their own little worlds over the coming months. But perhaps most important of all, is this journey over? No. Do I have a song that is perfect for this particular moment? DUH.

*Small word choice edits made for clarity after skimming Justin Lee’s Blog. 

Contemplating,
Nathan Hathaway Adams

Maury Yeston’s “Titanic”

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Today is the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the RMS Titanic. Many people will probably be marking today by interacting with some sort of media based on one of the most tragic stories of the century. It tugs at our heart strings, it fills us with dread, and challenges our intellect as we attempt to understand why it happened. It seems so natural we should turn to the arts to help us process this, for as librettist Peter Stone said, “It’s one of those rare moments in history which has a beginning, middle and end.” And while many of you may be familiar with the James Cameron movie (which I must admit I’ve never seen all the way through, but seen lots of bits on the telly), I want to introduce you to a musical version of the tale that debuted in the same year as that colossal film, music & lyrics by Maury Yeston, book by Peter Stone.

Nathan Hathaway Adams, Composer, Senior Recital

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Announcing the Senior Recital of

Nathan Hathaway Adams, Composer

Featuring the world premieres of all original music performed
by the faculty and students of the
Montreat College Music Department

Including
*Hymn Suite for Montreat, String Quartet
*The Call of Cthulhu, Dramatic Cantata

And more!

Chapel of the Prodigal / April 17th /  7 PM / Reception to Follow

Carrie, By Stephen King

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One of my favorite posters.

WARNING: This post contains spoilers concerning the plot of “Carrie,” but unless you live under a rock, it’s nothing you don’t already know.

I have always had a special affinity for the story of Carrie White, a tortured teenager who eventually rains terror upon her mocking classmates, pious mother, and apathetic town. Perhaps this affinity comes from knowing how similar my story would be if only my menstrual cycle had activated my telekinetic abilities. Sigh.

Having recently finished the novel, I can say it was everything I had hoped for and more. This was my first time reading Stephen King, and I anticipate that it will not be the last. The book moved me in a way few others have. I found myself having to put the book away because it upset me too much to continue. The picture he paints of pain, rage, and panic is horrible and vivid. I think it should be required reading upon entrance of Middle School. “Here’s what you can expect, try not to burn down the village.”

Here’s a video of Stephen King talking about “Carrie.”

My first proper encounter with the story of “Carrie” came in the form of (surprise, surprise) the musical version from the 1980′s. This musical is perhaps of one of the most decried plays in recent theatrical history. Poor directorial and design choices sunk what was at least a decent show, with moments of sheer brilliance. To give you a taste of what I mean, check out the song “And Eve Was Weak, ” sung by Carrie’s mother after Carrie gets her first period.

It saddens me to see such dramatic, moving music tucked away from the rest of the world where only theatre rats like me can find it. It also saddens me when I hear people react to the the mere idea of “Carrie The Musical.”

Musicals are not just about lovers singing about clams and flowers. Thankfully, movies like “Chicago” and “Sweeney Todd” have begun to alter this opinion. Unfortunately, misconceptions about what art forms can do are everywhere.

Some think books boring, comics lowbrow, theatre boring, television dumb, painting pointless, etc. What can we do to break down these barriers and help us to see the limitless potential art in every form? Perhaps it’s just a simple matter of stepping outside of our comfort zones, and giving something a second chance.

What don’t you see the potential in? Why not give a shot?

Introspective,
Nathan Hathaway