Review: ISO plays Bond and Beyond
by Rita Kohn
From Ian Fleming's 1953 introductory novel to the first film, Dr. No, and through adaptations, parodies, knock-offs and imitations, James Bond has become an iconic figure, as enduring as Sherlock Holmes. Vivacious in content and delivery, the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, joined by sprightly guest conductor Michael Krajewski and chameleon song stylist Debbie Gravitte, shared their fun cruising the musical oeuvre of James Bond films last weekend.
The packed audience of all ages testifies to the intergenerational appeal of James Bond films, numbering 22, with a new release set for Fall 2012 to mark the golden anniversary of the "man with the golden touch" on the silver screen. Music snatched from the action-packed sound track and played live, sans footage, enthralls us because there's something compellingly larger-than-life to these scores. Divorced from the films, they still seem to detail locations and characters, putting us right back into events that spiral toward the happy conclusion.
Gravitte changed costumes, hairstyles, moves and vocal range to interpret text and subtext with just the right sultriness and gusto for music by John Barry, David Arnold, Steve Barri and P.F. Sloan - and by Stephen Sondheim and Henry Mancini in the "Beyond' category. Krajewski's patter laced with humor extended the mood.
The surprises are lovely, including Roger Roe as the solo cell phone artist for James Stephenson's Concerto for Cell Phone, honoring 'gadgets' extant in Bond films. Throughout, ISO soloists and sections brought delight. A repeat performance would be welcome.
May 11 and 12 at Hilbert Circle TheatreRelated Locations
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Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra
- 32 E. Washington St. , Ste. 600 , Indianapolis Downtown Indiana 46204
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317-262-1100
- www.indianapolissymphony.org
- Be the first to review this location!
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