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Celebrating ‘Dysfunction: A New Musical’
Ke’lea Flowers has crafted a compelling original musical with her work, ‘Dysfunction: A New Musical.’ As I attended its performances at the Selma Arts Center, I found myself captivated not only by the storyline but also by the dedication and talent of the cast and crew. The show’s final performances, scheduled for April 19, offer a chance to witness this remarkable production.
Community Spirit and Originality
The Selma Arts Center deserves commendation for its commitment to original works, especially given the inherent risks. ‘Dysfunction’ embodies a community spirit that is palpable throughout the performance, showcasing the hard work of its extensive cast and creative team. It’s a rare opportunity to engage with a piece that is still in development, allowing for a unique perspective on the creative process.
Exploring the Themes
At its core, ‘Dysfunction’ addresses profound themes that resonate with many. It highlights the struggles we all face, be it through poor choices, difficult relationships, or challenges stemming from our upbringing. The musical emphasizes the importance of expressing our pain rather than suffering in silence. This message is crucial, encouraging audiences to seek support and solidarity in their struggles.
Understanding the Structure
The structure of ‘Dysfunction’ features a song cycle format, which includes a powerful opening ensemble number titled ‘Stronger.’ This sets a thematic foundation, followed by a series of songs that explore different characters and situations. While song cycles can be effective, a clearly defined narrative thread is essential for audience comprehension. At times, it was challenging to discern connections between scenes, leaving me wondering about the overarching storyline.
The Musical Composition
Flowers’ musical compositions showcase a balance of strength and warmth, resonating with the themes of the show. Many songs convey a sense of melancholy, perfectly aligning with the subject matter. Notable pieces like ‘Text Me Back’ and the titular song ‘Dysfunction’ provide a refreshing contrast to the more somber tones, allowing for emotional variety. The arrangements are lush, with gospel influences enriching the musical landscape.
Lyricism and Storytelling
In terms of lyrics, there is room for growth in conveying character-driven narratives. While some songs present general themes, a deeper exploration of specific experiences and relationships would enhance the emotional impact. Musical theater thrives on storytelling, and by incorporating more detailed lyrics, Flowers could elevate the audience’s connection to the characters and their journeys.
Direction and Choreography
The direction and choreography of ‘Dysfunction’ reflect a thoughtful approach to staging. Flowers utilizes creative blocking to enhance storytelling, such as in the song ‘Addiction,’ where a character interacts with a bottle of pills. These unexpected moments add depth to the performance. A standout moment occurs during ‘I Remember This Day,’ where the cast bursts into action, creating a dynamic and engaging scene.
Performance Excellence
The talent present at the Selma Arts Center is remarkable. The performers deliver consistent, emotionally resonant performances that draw the audience in, showcasing their dedication to the project. Instead of listing individual names, it’s essential to acknowledge the collective strength of the cast.
Looking Forward
As ‘Dysfunction’ continues to evolve, there’s potential to deepen the narrative complexity. A moment of self-reflection regarding parental influence hints at a richer exploration of personal history and its impact. By moving beyond simplistic interpretations, Flowers can create a more nuanced portrayal of relationships and their intricacies.
A Memorable Finale with the Fresno Philharmonic
The Fresno Philharmonic recently concluded its 70th season with a powerful concert led by music director Rei Hotoda. Featuring tabla master Sundeep Das, the performance highlighted a fascinating blend of Western and Indian classical traditions, showcasing the virtuosity and emotional depth of the musicians. The concert concluded with Brahms’ Symphony No. 1, leaving the audience with a transcendent experience.
Farewell to a Local Virtuoso
During this concert, the Fresno Philharmonic bid farewell to principal flutist Janette Erickson, who has been a cornerstone of the orchestra since 1978. Her contributions to the local classical music scene have been invaluable, and her legacy will certainly be felt for years to come.