Music Reviews

Apr 22, 2001 - The Reno Philharmonic's Lovely and Voluptuous "Candide"

By Jack Neal

We should be grateful that Leonard Bernstein lived long enough to refashion the "final" 1989 version of "Candide" performed so voluptuosly Sunday afternoon (4/22/2001) at the Pioneer Center by the Reno Philharmonic, the Reno Philharmonic Chorus and seven exceptional singing actors.

Blending together all these forces to breathe life anew into Bernstein's intoxicating music is a maestro infinitely suited to make what Northern Nevada audiences are hearing and experiencing something very special. Barry Jekowsky studied conducting with Bernstein and has the background, instincts, skills and passion to re-create this dazzling score with the panache Bernstein himself brought to "Candide" in performance.

In the 45 years since its brief Broadway run, "Candide" has been subjected to more face lifts than an aging actress, always with the hope that what had originally been hammered out by so many brilliant talents could finally be made workable for the stage. Bernstein's score has always been the main attraction, a kaleidoscope of invention, if too intricately eventful for musical comedy audiences in 1956.

The major stumbling block of "Candide's" first run for the gold was Lillian Hellman's meandering adaptation of Voltaire's classic satire, compounded by verbal overkill from an avalanche of lyricists; mostly John Wilbur, but also John LaTouche, Dorothy Parker, Hellman and Bernstein and eventually even Stephen Sondheim. All, of course, trying to capture the buoyant spirit of Candide's rash and wild adventures "in the best of all possible worlds."

Perhaps it's best if "Candide" is heard and not seen. It's such a witty, bawdy, profound, frivilous and thoughtful entertainment, it is best left to be told as great stories are told with the listener's imagination supplying the visuals. That's what this glorious concert version does.

Jekowsky's intuitive musicianship translates into a leadership that captures the verve, bounce and serenity of the score as well as its underlying seriousness. His troops follow suit with a spit-and-polish execution that's more than just smart; it's robust, rapturous and loaded with fizz and sparkle. All involved are responsive to the score's tenderness, strength and explosive brilliance. It's grand to end this bright and eventful season in grand shape, but in grand shape it does end. The orchestra is playing with a gorgeously produced sound and immaculate execution. Likewise its chorus, so ably prepared by chorusmaster Bruce Mayhall, performs "Candide" with rare distinction.

As Candide, tenor Richard Nikol is the model of boyish innocence. His winning Candide blends conviction with vulnerability and is tenderly expressive to boot. As Cunegonde, Noelle Richardson has a creamy coloratura soprano so captivating her "Glitter and Be Gay" is perhaps the best sung "G&BG" since Barbara Cook first sang it on Broadway nearly a half century ago. Richard Gould's Dr. Pangloss/Martin emphasizes a musical-theater inflection of text over vocalism, but he's a charmer nonetheless.

Ross Halper is rakishly authoritative as the Governor (and his variants) and a delight. Katharine DeBoer is a hoot as the Old Lady and nearly steals the show. Her every glance and inflection connects hilariously with the audience. DeBoer's "I Am Easily Assimilated" is a show stopper. Jennifer Tibben-Lembke is the tarty Paquette and she's got the tart business down pat. Not in the least to be overlooked, Gary Aldrich's gaily narcissistic Maximilian and rich sound make him a runner up for show stealer in this all-star cast. What a delicious cast of wonderful characters they are.

And what a coherent musical statement "Candide" makes under Jekowsky's baton. His "Candide" builds with a carefully molded musical and dramatic logic. All the while, none of the score's exuberance is sacrificed; yet its emotional dimensions are highlighted giving the musical a more penetrating resonance than is usual, even under very good circumstances. "Candide's" finale, "Make Our Garden Grow," is a superb climax to a splendid season.

"Candide" will be performed again Tuesday evening (4/24/2001) at 7:30 p.m. at the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts, 100 South Virginia Street, Reno. For information about "Candide" and other Reno Philharmonic events, including next season, call 775-323-6393.