Dear Evan Hansen

Everyone can relate to feeling alone. "Dear Evan Hansen" is a story of finding your way, and learning that you matter. 

Yesterday I got to see "Dear Evan Hansen" on it's national tour. This is one of the shows I was looking forward to most this season. It was marvelous. I was so moved by the gripping story, intricate characters, and extraordinary music. It really captured the feeling of being alone, one that everyone can relate to. I shed a tear multiple times, especially in the beginning for some reason. I could feel that the audience was really moved by this show. At one point there was the biggest audible "oh no" from the crowd that I have ever heard. Everyone was completely invested in this story, following Evan as he works himself deeper and deeper into his lies, confusion, and lack of self-worth. I could feel that...

...the audience was completely invested in the story, everyone was rooting so hard for Evan.

*this review may have spoilers.

Stephen Christopher Anthony was the perfect Evan Hansen. 

One of the things I love about theatre is that whoever you see that night in a role is amazing, and you couldn't imagine anyone else in their place. Stephen Christopher Anthony captured the audience with the truth of his character. He made great choices, and fought hard. I absolutely fell in love with his character.

I really enjoyed seeing such a small cast. With only eight actors, somehow they made it feel like a full, larger than life show. The one criticism I would add is that some of the lines felt just a tad unnatural, with unneeded paused between words, trying to force lines to sound lyrical. Some of the moments felt too rehearsed, like you could tell that the actors moved to the same places every night. I was itching to see something in the moment, the thing that made that night's performance it's own show. I really felt like I got this from Stephen Christopher Anthony...

...I could feel his truthfulness in the moment, and how he was experiencing the story in a different way every night. 

I loved how the sets looked like they were a part of the internet. This is a show that you need to watch from the balcony. From above it looked like the actors were almost floating, the projections onto the floor added dimension and transformed the stage. The one set that I had mixed feelings about was the final scene. I loved the curtain rising and the light filling the stage. It was so bright, I felt like I was blinded. It really gave the ending this lovely feeling of openness, and you can feel how Evan's life has changed, it was reflected in the set design. But, there was something about the orchard that didn't vibe with me. I would have liked something a little more breezy, the feeling of the peace of the outdoors was lost. The internet theme got in the way of the outdoors, when it could have been used to make a big impact. The contrast of the world online and the nature outside would have been lovely to see. Evan loves trees, I wanted to feel why he loved them in the set, that feeling of stillness and peace. 

Evan is known for his signature blue collared shirt and cast, but the part of his outfit that I fell in love with was his shoes.

The costumes were made to be realistic to the common style of dress today. Evan wore such simple grey tennis shoes, and I have no idea why, but for me they added a lot to his character. The other costume that I thought worked really well for the show was Connor's. With his long hair and dull-colored baggy clothing, he looked like any kid you could know. It was very simple, but realistic. It worked really well for the story.

Watching "Waving Through a Window" live onstage is one of the best moments I have ever seen in a show.

It felt unreal to be actually watching it. It was such a ecstatic moment, one that I will never forget. The music was incredible. Numbers like "Waving Through a Window" and "You Will Be Found" filled the auditorium with their drama and emotion, and songs like "Words Fail" made me lean in to hear more.

The story was so complex and emotional. I just wanted to tell Evan that everything was going to be okay. It was so sad. The truth that Connor was so unknown is something that the characters had to work through the entire show, and even at the end it is something that is hard to even comprehend. This show makes you think about the importance of reaching out, and knowing that you are not alone, everyone can understand what you are going though.

My favorite part of the show is how Evan is able to get to the other side. To show that you can learn from your mistakes, even when it seems like you have done irreparable damage to yourself and others. Evan's journey is so amazing to watch, and it gives people hope. It shows that you can feel good again.

Like all of the best shows, "Dear Evan Hansen" has become a part of who I am.

-Celia Boldizar

Miss Saigon

Miss Saigon knocked me off of my feet, and captured my heart. 

This show was shockingly good. I was completely blown away. It really moved me with it's intensity, romance, and heart. Kim's story lingered with me long after I had left the theatre.

It was the best show I have seen in my whole life.

It had the best sets I have ever seen. They were so detailed, and had so much depth. They were so well thought out, the angels, height levels, materials, and colors. There were neon lights, fire breathing dragons, and flying helicopters. I jaw literally dropped when it flew in. I really felt like I was in their world.

The music the star of the show. I love when a musical is sung the whole way through. The actor's voices were phenomenal, and the orchestra had my heart soaring. The story was so captivating, and I was constantly trying to think though what was going to happen next. The story was done so well though, that I could never figure out what was going to happen next. It was so romantic and heartbreaking. It really showed the complexity of human character.

"Miss Saigon" is a show that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I really connected with me, and it makes me smile whenever I remember it.

I was the first to my feet to give them a standing ovation when it was over. I am so grateful to have seen it.

-Celia Boldizar

Fiddler on the Roof

"Fiddler on the Roof" was such a fun show!

It was filled with beautiful singing, funny characters, and Jewish culture. The sets were done really well, and worked perfectly for the show. The dream scene was particularly creative, and actually quite frightening! The characters were so lovable, Elly and I personally feel in love with Motel and his sewing machine. Not only was this show funny and sweet, it told an emotional story of family and hardship. It ended on a note of sadness, and it was really heartfelt. 

You can clearly see why the this musical has become a classic.

-Celia Boldizar

Mary Poppins Returns

"Mary Poppins Returns" is spectacularly magical. 

Mary Poppins is back in this thrilling sequel. This movie was so bright and colorful, and had such a positive message. It is a wonderful movie for everyone. It had exactly the feel that I wanted, so magical and carefree.

Emily Blunt was the perfect Mary Poppins. Her spunky attitude and wit was so delightful. Lin-Manuel Miranda's character, Jack the lamp-lighter, was so charming. There were grand musical numbers, balloons, and dancing penguins. The whole design of this film was enchanting. The colors in the sets and costumes were so vibrant, and really enhanced the story. It was such a wonderful movie.

Absolutely lovely. 

-Celia Boldizar

Hamilton

Last month I had the great privilege of getting to see the Broadway hit, Hamilton. I have been the biggest fan of this show. I've listened to the cast album countless times, and even learned to play the songs on the piano. When I got the opportunity to see the show, I was ecstatic! Everyone knows about this show. The hype surrounding it is huge, so I was interested to see what is was like to actually watch it. What surprised me the most was the sweetness.

Sitting in the audience the hype disappeared, and I felt like a was watching a small, intimate, show. It just felt good. 

From the cast album alone you can hear that Hamilton is a masterpiece. Lin-Manuel Miranda put his all into it, and it really shows. The lyrics are so thoughtful and fresh. Everything is connected and has a purpose. Most of all what drew me in is the energy. Miranda is a bright light, bursting with passion. Every line in Hamilton shines bright.

I saw the Philip Company, and they were absolutely incredible. Everything was perfect, the costumes, choreography, sets, lighting, and music. I laughed at parts I didn't think I would, it was so funny. It never missed a beat. 

From the moment it started, my idea of Hamilton went out the window.

I was technically watching Hamilton, but I didn't know it at all. I was really seeing it for the first time. It was completely new. The Philip company made this show their own. Each actor made their rolls their own. From the very first line of the show I was taken aback at how new it was. Nik Walker played Aaron Burr. He was the first to sing, and I was caught off guard. From his first line I could tell that he was telling his own story. He was silly, and quirky. It was so personal, and you could tell that he was really enjoying his part in this amazing show.

Throughout the show I feel in love with all of the actors. Kyle Scatliffe won over the audience as Lafayfette/Jefferson. He had this voice that was so endearing. Alexander Hamilton, played by Joseph Morales was so heartwarming, and so surprisingly soft. Shoba Narayan was the perfect Eliza, and Ta'rea Campbell was a badass Angelica.

Hamilton had the best use of an ensemble I have ever seen. After the lyrics, the choreography was the lead storyteller. There was never a dull moment. I wanted to have more eyes to watch everything that was happening onstage. Little stories were happening everywhere. 

I felt like there was no distance between the stage and my seat.

No separation, no boundaries, even though I was sitting high up in the balcony. I have never had a show take hold of me so strongly. I became a part of the show. The other audience members were no longer there. Every moment was new. I sat on the edge of my seat, I couldn't miss a moment. 

Most importantly, Hamilton made me appreciate the importance of time. Every moment was another one gone. I will never see those exact moments again, but they will be with me forever. It reminded me that I have so much to do, so much to give.

I wanted to be there watching "Hamilton" forever, but at the same time I felt restless. I felt like I needed to go home and write.

 -Celia Boldizar 

Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald

"Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald" is the film that I have been waiting for.

After the first Fantastic Beasts movie was released two years ago, I have been so excited to see what happens next in the wizarding world. I was so looking forward to this movie, and it did not disappoint.

 From the intriguing characters, beautiful cinematography, deep connections the Harry Potter world, and the adorable beasts, I can say that this film surpassed my expectations. 

The cinematography in this movie was beautiful. My favorite parts were these close up shots of each of the main characters. When a character was introduced they went to a close up shot of their face. It made me feel really close to them. It was a beautiful way to capture each character in an intimate way. 

The characters were the heart of this movie. I fell in love with all of them. The familiar faces grew even more intriguing, and the new ones fit right in. Characters like Leta Lestrange, and Queenie Goldstein were fantastic to watch. Also, the romance was so sweet, like Newt's "salamander" line to Tina Goldstein. 

The plot tied right into the story of the wizarding world...

and what fans know from Harry Potter. Because the first movie introduced the new story, this one was able to jump right into the details. Fans can get excited about the new plot developments. My friend and I were talking long after the movie ended, trying to piece together ideas.

Overall this movie was incredible. 

Both old fans, and newcomers will fall in love with this magical world. 

-Celia Boldizar

Singular Act 1

Sabrina's new album "Singular Act 1" is a sweet success...

On November 9th, Sabrina Carpenter released her third album "Singular Act 1". I was happy to see that this album continued the positive, easy to listen to vibe of her previous album, "EVOLution". I feel like Sabrina's music is growing naturally. The content in "Singular Act 1" is more mature than the last two albums, but she is not trying to shock people for the sake of being shocking.  

Having an Act 1 is a wonderful way to keep listeners interested. Act 1 consists of only eight songs, three of which had already been released as singles. When I finished listening to the album I found myself wanting more. I am looking forward to Act 2...

Although this album is not anything ground-breaking, it is great music nonetheless. The songs are so sweet and warm. It reminds me of Christmas time...

...like I am on my way to a holiday party, riding in a warm car (it's a vibe). 

The two songs that you must listen to are "Diamonds are Forever" and "Sue Me". The use of a theme in "Diamonds are Forever" is so refreshing. I enjoy a song that sticks with a clear idea instead of getting vague. "Sue Me" is just so fun, and I love the music video. After watching it I want to wear only pink and walk around like I own the place.

"Singular Act 1" is leading Sabrina's music into a fun place. 

-Celia Boldizar