What POPE! The Musical does right:
1) A good score with show-tunes. Most songs have a good hook or gimmick, and the score varies in styles. The songs aren't too long, and some move the plot, while others teach lessons.
2) A simple plot. It's basically the story of any natural leader who gets overthrown, only to regain that thrown in the end. It's Lion King, It's Jesus Christ Superstar...it's a formula for a good dramatic arch.
3) Comedy sketches. There are several vaudeville/variety show sketches that are pure comic relief. They don't move the plot, but they're clever and witty. The humor of the show is admirable, and the characters are like-able. I like that this show has elements of camp-fire sketch, while maintaining a full arch, and taking itself seriously. It's exactly what a Fringe show should be. Despite whether the authors see future productions, the Fringe is an excellent showcase for this production.
4) Great use of space. For a minimal set, there are many actors, and the use of space is important. The way they cover time and location is successful. There is some great choreography and lighting that helps too.
5) Originality. Most of all, who thought to write a musical about the Pope? I actually learned something, while it's not entirely about being informative. It's entertainment, but it's also interesting.
Fringe encores has ended, thus concluding the Fringe festival 2010. Now it's on to NYMF! Check back often!
I saw this show and thought it was fabulous! Funny, clever with catchy music and great performances by the cast. I hope good things happen for all involved in this production.
I saw the last performance. I was amazed! Extremely clever jokes, great timing, and incredible use of the space! The score was perfect, set mood when it needed to and also help to move the story along. Great Theatre all the way around!!! I look forward to Fringe again and more from the Writer, Composer, and Directors of POPE! An Epic Musical!
I LOVED this show!! I saw it first at the Magnet Theatre, then again when it was picked up by the Fringe Festival then again the last night of the Fringe Encore, which was THE BEST!!! It was great fun to watch it develop: the story, the pace, the jokes all grew better while the BRILLIANT cast kept the energy high and fresh! You hum the music as you leave the theatre and the complex harmonies are Mozartian! I hope we see more of POPE! An Epic Musical!