2009.4.29. Sunday in the Park with George

Sunday in the Park with George, a musical entirely born out of Seurat's one painting. Music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. Wonderful music: staccato and repetitive to imitate pointillism, resulting a shimmering and fun effect. Simple, witty stage set, using a lot of projection. Innovative design (for example, the dogs). Its 2 minute 1 sentence opening won a roaring applause. However, the plot is lacking drama and integrity. The lyrics sound silly. Not sure how the 1983-4 productions looked like. Seems to me, the modern technology is essential to the staging, at least to this 2008 revival. I'm glad that Seattle is one of the 3 cities (started in London, and also produced in New York) putting up this refreshing production. It's a pity that not more people can experience it.