Theater Thursday - The Notebook

What: The Notebook

Where: Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre

             236 W. 45th St.

             New York, NY 

Who: Recommended for Ages 10 and Up

The Notebook is a musical based on the beloved 2004 movie starring Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams, which was, in turn, based on the 1996 novel by best-selling author, Nicholas Sparks. In the show, three sets of couples play the central pair. With all the back and forth in the action and pairs of actors coming in and out of the story, it can be a bit confusing at times, especially if you are unfamiliar with the book and/or the movie. The story is definitely not quite developed as it could be here. 

The songs are not very memorable. The casting is odd. Color blind casting is one thing, It is not a problem that Black actors have been cast in parts that were originally played by White actors nor is it a problem that the central couple is interracial. In fact, these are steps toward more representative theater which is definitely a good thing.  However, having actors of different races play the same character at different ages does not make sense in a show that is rooted in the real world and is neither science fiction nor fantasy.  

This is not to disparage the quality of the performances. In general, the acting is fine. Dorian Harewood and Maryann Plunkett, who play the oldest version of the couple, however, are on a whole other level than the rest of the cast. They are clearly the standouts giving heartbreakingly beautiful performances that are transcendent especially Maryann. They are the main reason to see this mostly derivative show.

And that's our view. For more about The Notebook or to purchase tickets, visit https://notebookmusical.com. 

Tune in Saturday for Still More Theater Saturday.

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