“Glimpses of the Moon” is a delightful little musical performed cabaret-style every Monday night in the Oak Room restaurant of the Algonquin Hotel. The old-world elegance of the Oak Room provides a lovely setting for a tale about New York’s high society during the jazz age. With lively music and an exuberant cast, this show is certain to please. Sure, the ending is no surprise, but there are enough twists and turns on the way to make the ride enjoyable.
“Glimpses of the Moon” is based on Edith Wharton’s novel of the same name, written in 1922 about the romantic misadventures of Susy Blanch and Nick Lansing. The two young socialites have looks, charm, and plenty of wealthy friends. The one thing they do not have is money. Therefore, if they wish to remain members of high society their only option is to marry up. However, the two hatch a clever scheme to marry each other and live off of the wedding gifts, buying them a year of freedom and more time to arrange suitable marriages. In the end they must choose not only between love and money, but also determine how far they are willing to go from a moral standpoint to maintain their familiar levels of comfort.
Four additional actors round out the cast, playing an assortment of eccentric society folks. The ambiance of the Oak Room combined with the elegant costumes and jazzy music do more than enough to invoke the spirit of the roaring 20s. One hardly notices that there is no scenery and very few props. The musical is well suited to the Oak Room as it was written precisely for this location. Thanks to the skillful staging of Denis Jones and Marc Bruni, the audience is almost never at a loss for a good view. You may also be pleased to know that although the action is certainly up close and personal, there is no audience involvement - almost. (If you prefer not to be singled-out, make sure that you are not cuddling with your sweetheart when the guest star comes out. Other than that, you’re safe.)
The romantic musical comedy first premiered in January of 2008 at the Oak Room and has returned for a second run after receiving praise from critics and audiences. Dinner is served before the show; the fixed price menu is $60. It is not necessary to have dinner first, however there is a $30 drink and food minimum. The audience is requested to arrive at least 30 minutes before the show as food and drinks are not served during the performance.
“Glimpses of the Moon”
Based on the novel by Edith Wharton; book and lyrics by Tajlei Levis; Music by John Mercurio; produced by Sharon Carr Associates, Ltd.; Choreographed by Denis Jones; Directed by Marc Bruni; Costumes by Lisa Zinni; Props by Dev Gaouette; Lighting by James Milkey; Production stage manager, Carlos Maisonet,
With: Jane Blass, Autumn Hurlbert, Laura Jordan, Daren Kelly, Chris Peluso, Glenn Peters, Russell Arden Koplin, and Matt Lutz.
