What a pleasure it was to experience the most recent musical at North Shore Music Theatre. The New England premiere of The Three Musketeers is a nice throwback to the epic musical. It may remind one of Les Miserables with respect to its vision and physicality.
From the very beginning, the audience knows that this is a contemporary version of the classic tale but is authentic and true to the original story. While the original, complex text is streamlined for a modern musical, it never feels insulting or simplified, which may be the ultimate irony. While this production is quite enjoyable, it doesn't quite fit in with what is "hot" right now, so Broadway might have to wait. It will be worth it.
The first of two technical aspects of note are the costumes which are as exquistive as they are authentic. One might find themselves taking in the beauty of these original masterpieces before realizing a show is going. The other is the lighting. Very rarely can specific time of day be captured, but the staff has taken full advantage of this small space to offer the audience a most realistic sense of time and space.
D'Artagnan is handsome and in the moment, and we get a good sense of his personal story arc and growth. The Musketeers have terrific chemistry among each other, and their vocal harmonies alone are a reason to see the show. Milady stands out as with her outstanding voice and character. Even when her mic failed on her, we could not tell!
The Three Musketeers proves that chilvalry is alive and well! A-.
