Roy Berko
The singing voices are strong, the music well-played, the technical aspects well done. The sound system leaves much to be desired as spoken voices are not well-heard. Don’t expect the usual Broadway glossy set, special effects, fancy costumes, or electronic effects. If you are a Dylan-fanatic, are into his music and/or want to sit back and listen to his songs, while paying a little attention to a slight story, this will be your thing! Me? I’m looking forward to FUNNY GIRL and COMPANY, later in the season offerings.
To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.
Howard Gollop
How well Dylan's '60s folk-rock songs fit into Depression-era Duluth is still something for debate, but McPherson further ups the ante by framing the whole production as sort of a "Prairie Home Companion" -- that famous folksy variety show broadcast from downtown St. Paul, downstate of Duluth. If Dylan's music doesn't quite thematically match up with the play, it certainly fills the bill for live variety revue.
To see a full review of this show, read Howard Gollop's review here.
Sheri Gross
Girl From the North Country” is complicated and dark; and during a time when many of us are carrying a lot of sadness and fear about the state of our world, and also take to heart a lot of the issues at the forefront of the plot, it may not have a smooth landing. But it is definitely a show that takes risks, pushes the envelope, and lifts up some of Dylans masterful music that we may never have discovered otherwise.
Mark Horning
While this is a very well produced show with excellent singing, dancing, acting and a strong story line it is a truly depressing story. There is no glossy Broadway set, lighting, costumes, videos projections or pyrotechnics. Nary a sequin can be found in sight although there are three disco balls that are used a lot. It is simply an evening of acting with unrelated songs thrown in. If you are a Dylan fan, you will appreciate the various renditions.
To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.
Chris Howey
This towering and teetering collection of deliciously downbeat vignettes and mystically evocative songs manages to worm its way into your mind and heart, leaving you licking your fingers and burping contentedly when the 150-minute show is concluded.
To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.
Laura Kennelly
The national tour of Broadway’s Girl from the North Country at the Connor Palace Theatre offers a fine music-centered evening — and may just make a few new Bob Dylan fans (not that he needs any more).
Writer and director Conor McPherson combines Dylan’s songs with orchestrations by Simon Hale to weave a minimal storyline into a Picasso-like mélange. Don’t go expecting a typical Disney musical. This is not one.
It’s a tough look at how life can go very wrong in a very cold place, yet hope can lead people to venture into new dreams. So it’s not a total downer, but the show’s appeal comes more from the powerful singing, both in solo and supporting choruses. Girl from the North Country explores longing, love and joy — sometimes (and often surprisingly) simultaneously.
To see a full review of this show, read Laura's post here or at Cool Cleveland.
Joey Morona
‘Girl from the North Country’ reveals the brilliance of Bob Dylan’s music and the flaws of a jukebox musical
To see a full review of this show, read Joey's posts here.
