Ars Nova, an Off-Broadway, not-for- profit theater, has long been at the cutting-edge of developing new theatrical work since 2002. It is not surprising, then, that Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812, commonly known as The Great Comet was first produced Off-Broadway under its direction (arsnovanyc.com).
Casting
The welcome surprise is the casting of Josh Groban, who has longed to be on Broadway, but did not want to do it in a traditional way. In The Great Comet, he achieves that goal – serving as a kind of moderator (think Our Town) – and also brings the show up a notch whenever he steps in to set things right both in the story and with his resonant voice. The Great Comet is an adaptation of a 70-page slice of War and Peace (yes, that War and Peace), and takes place amidst Moscow society celebrating life and love just as Napoleon is at the gates of the city.
Creativity
This is the most creative use of an entire Broadway theater since the original Cats in 1982. Forty-three actors, musicians and dancers perform throughout the space – upstairs and down. With a large portion of the audience seated on stage in a colorful Russian Supper Club, the action is centered and allows everyone to feel involved. In a way, we are all in the supper club, with little tables between some of the seats. The “fourth wall” of the theatre has virtually disappeared. The opening moments let you know immediately that this is a spirited production as cast the members dance along the platforms extending into the orchestra distributing warm Russian treats (Russian Potato Piroshki) to the audience.
Classic Tale
The Great Comet is essentially a love story set against a turbulent time in 19th Century Russia. The beautiful Natasha (Denee Benton, radiant in her Broadway debut) is betrothed to the nobleman Andrey (Nicholas Belton), who is away at war. When Natasha arrives in Moscow with her sister Sonya (a poignant Brittain Ashford), she is not welcomed by Andrey’s family, especially his father (also played as an old man by Belton) and sister Mary (a convincing Gelsey Bell). Smarting from the rejection and Andrey’s absence, Natasha falls for the charms of Anatole (Lucas Steele), who conspires with his sister Helene (an alluring Amber Gray – and Pierre’s estranged wife) to gain her affection. Natasha’s Godmother, Marya D (a fiery Grace Mclean), will hear none of this. She enlists Pierre’s help, who confronts Anatole and forces him to leave Moscow.
While the story is Tolstoy’s, the realization is by Dave Malloy, who wrote the music, lyrics, book and orchestrations. It is a grand gesture flawlessly executed by scenic designer Mimi Lien, costume designer, Paloma Young and lighting designer, Bradley King. With musicians playing all over the theater – often in motion – special credit goes to sound designer, Nicholas Pope. Director Rachel Chavkin has weaved these disparate parts into a seamless whole. The spirited choreography is by Sam Pinkleton.
Now, what you are you waiting for? The show, however, is not for kids. It’s best for ages 12 and up. Running time is 2 1/2 hours with one intermission. Cheers! Nostrovia!
George A. Wachtel is president of Audience Research & Analysis, A New York City-based market research firm specializing in arts and entertainment.
