Two hours and 40 minutes, with one 15-minute intermission, is how long audiences will spend immersed in the new musical adaptation of “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” which opened Wednesday night at the Public Theater. This adaptation, born from Darren Clark's music and Jethro Compton's book and direction, aims for Broadway but takes its time finding its footing.
The show kicks off with an exuberant yet somewhat chaotic folksy style, marked by group songs that can feel more like Paul Bunyan-like storytelling than a cohesive narrative. Despite its rough start, the second half reveals a different story, shedding much of the earlier clamor and allowing the central characters to flourish.
Andrew Durand plays Benjamin, a man who ages in reverse, beginning his life at 70. Kelsee Kimmel portrays his love interest, Elowen, a barmaid whose youthful energy contrasts sharply with Benjamin’s advanced years. Their chemistry is palpable, and their performances are the heart of the production, transforming it from a confusing spectacle into a heartfelt exploration of love and loss.
The adaptation shifts the story's setting from Baltimore to coastal Cornwall, England, and moves its timeline from 1860 to 1918. This change provides a backdrop that resonates with themes of loss, particularly in a post-World War I context, where many children faced the absence of fathers. The musical captures this sentiment with a Celtic-adjacent score that evokes both sadness and nostalgia.
The plot centers on a baby born at 70 years old, an absurdity that the musical does not attempt to explain. Instead, it introduces a dark undercurrent through Benjamin's relationship with his mother, Mary, portrayed by Sachiko Mae. She expresses her disdain for her son in a song comparing him to the Kraken, suggesting a deep-seated regret. Meanwhile, his father, Roger, played by Brandon J. Ellis, grapples with resentment toward both his wife and their unusual child.
As Benjamin ages backward, he grows from a 70-year-old man to a 44-year-old in the first act. He embarks on a decade-long journey at sea and enlists in the Royal Navy during World War II. The production makes effective use of its set, designed to resemble a sunken fishing boat, while the cast, often doubling as musician-actors, skillfully brings the score to life. Yet, the multitude of characters can be overwhelming, especially in the first act, which features extensive narration that sometimes feels excessive.
The show takes a turn in Act Two, focusing more on the emotional undercurrents of loss and the passage of time. Durand and Kimmel shine in these quieter moments, offering a more mature reflection on their characters' experiences. Kimmel's multifaceted performance, where she juggles various roles, adds depth to the narrative, although at times it feels challenging for her to transition back into the ensemble after emotionally charged scenes.
Durand, who has previously appeared in comedies such as “Head Over Heels” and “Shucked,” showcases a different side of his talent. His portrayal of Benjamin is both nuanced and grounded. He navigates the complexities of playing a character who embodies both the wisdom of age and the innocence of youth. His ability to convey depth without resorting to melodrama stands out, making him a compelling lead.
As the musical unfolds, it reflects the struggles of its titular character, who must find reasons to remain optimistic despite the absurdity of his existence. One of the show's standout moments comes in the song “A Little Life,” where Benjamin expresses his yearning for connection. The music, while occasionally repetitive, serves to transport the audience into Benjamin's world, even as they grapple with the surreal premise.
“The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” may initially stumble through its exposition, but it ultimately reveals a touching narrative anchored by its leads. While the first act can feel cluttered, the second half offers a poignant exploration of love and the fleeting nature of time. The production, with its ambitious aims, is a sincere endeavor that resonates with the complexities of life, love, and everything in between.
According to NY POST.
