Master Class
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Summary
Cititour.com Review
A tour-de-force performance from Tyne Daly gives the revival of Terrence McNally’s brittle pseudo-bio of Maria Callas plenty of bite but not too much in the way of finesse.
Director Stephen Wadsworth concentrates his efforts on the erratic aspects of the famed opera diva’s temperament and less so on her inner wounded child. The result is a riveting, yet muscular, performance from Daly and a rather timid display from the supporting cast.
McNally structures the play with Callas conducting her master class and casts the audience as her auditors. Two sopranos, and a tenor, struggle with criticism from their mentor, not only on their lack of technique, but suffer biting comments on everything from their choice of hairstyle to their outfits, while Callas insists, “it’s all in the music.”
Meanwhile Callas’ mind wanders to her past as a hungry child during the war, her monumental fights with shipping magnet, (and future husband of Jackie Kennedy), Aristotle Onassis, and crushing rejection after many triumphs at La Scala.
These "sense memories," so to speak, allow Daly the opportunity to display her resolve despite her contention that she needs eyes in the back of her head since, “everyone is always behind you plotting your demise.”
Sierra Boggess (Broadway’s “The Little Mermaid”) with her soaring soprano and indignant reaction to her famed teacher’s cutting remarks, is a good foil for Daly’s focused intensity. The rest of the cast pales in comparison.
Paul Huntley’s wig design and the very specific Callas signature make-up go a long way in transforming Daly into La Divina, but nothing can change the fact that as ruthless as Callas is purported to be, she held herself with a regal grace. Zoe Caldwell originated the role winning a Tony award doing just that, but Daly is more of a Mama bear protecting her territory than a woman of a certain age struggling with her losses.
Nonetheless, this “Master Class,” like the real Maria Callas, inspires audiences to jump to their feet cheering Daly’s Brava performance. No doubt a contender when Tony time rolls around.
By Lesley Alexander
Visit the Site
http://www.manhattantheatreclub.com/current-season/masterclass/default.asp
Cast
Tyne Daly, Sierra Boggess, Clinton Brandhagen, Jeremy Cohen, Alexandra Silber, Garrett Sorenson
Open/Close Dates
Opening 6/14/2011
Closing 9/4/2011
Box Office
212-239-6200
Theatre Info
Samuel J. Friedman Theatre
261 West 47th Street
New York, NY 10036
Map
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