Umbrellas of Cherbourg

Three Rivers Theater is a lovely new theater in downtown Redbank. About half the cast was equity, although you would think it was 100%.
I never saw the original movie so I can't compare. The poster called it a Jazz musical. Music by Michel LeGrand.
Two criticisms, the lighting was horrible. The cast moved in an out of light to the point of irritation. It was such a distraction.
Second, it is always strange to hear a trained voice singing out of their element. Kind of like Kiri Tekanawas Jazz album or Rod Stewart singing from the American Songbook. Sometimes it works, others, not so much. The entire cast had Broadway trained voices. I kept thinking how much better it would have sounded with jazz singers. Pity, some of the music was lovely.
Max von Essen is a lovely singer with a charming presence. So much fun to watch him. Heather Spore as Genevieve, eh...that's all. Robyn Payne as Madaleine was the nicest surprise. A beauty with real acting chops. Underused in this role.
Thanks to John for dinner and a night at the theater. Great birthday gift. Thanks doll.