Notre Dame de Paris, the iconic French musical, has taken New York City by storm with its premiere at Lincoln Center on Thursday night. The show received a rousing reception from the audience, with generous applause, enthusiastic cries, and a standing ovation.
Despite having seen the musical multiple times, the author of the article couldn’t help but feel the thrill that arises as soon as the first notes of the immortal success “Times of the Cathedrals” fill the air. This excitement was shared by the 2,500 spectators gathered inside the auditorium near Central Park, creating a perfect and continuous communion between the performers and the audience.
The emotional impact of Notre Dame de Paris, conveyed through the words of Luc Plamondon and the music of Richard Cocciante, quickly transcended any language barrier. Although surtitles in English were projected on screens, the focus remained on the talented cast throughout the premiere. The plot, inspired by Victor Hugo’s classic work, has become ingrained in popular culture, making the characters of Quasimodo, Esmeralda, Frollo, Gringoire, and others instantly recognizable.
The production itself is a well-oiled machine, having been applauded in 20 countries since its creation in 1998. The choreography is impressive and well-honed, while the stage design provides a solid backdrop for the remarkable vocal performances that are the pillars of the musical spectacle.
Daniel Lavoie, the only Canadian actor in the cast, delivered a phenomenal performance as Frollo, the main antagonist. Gian Marco Schiaretti, as Gringoire, proved to be a worthy successor to Bruno Pelletier, showcasing charisma and smoothness in his portrayal. Angelo Del Vecchio embodied the troubled Quasimodo with obvious pleasure, delivering powerful renditions of “God the World is Unfair” and “Danse mon Esmeralda.”
Notre Dame de Paris will continue its run at Lincoln Center until July 16 before moving to another metropolis. The show will be enhanced by the presence of Quebecers Martin Giroux and Emma Lépine in the roles of Phoebus and Fleur de Lys, respectively. Additionally, Jamie Bono, Robert Marien, Mike Lee, and Philippe Tremblay will return to Quebec as stunt doubles for the characters of Esmeralda, Fleur de Lys, Frollo, Clopin, and Quasimodo.
For those who missed the New York premiere, Notre Dame de Paris will be presented at Place des Arts in Montreal from August 2 to 10. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this captivating musical firsthand.
How does “Notre Dame de Paris” explore themes of social injustice and acceptance, and why does this resonate with the audience?
Mers and the audience.
Directed by Alex Timbers, the production captures the essence of Victor Hugo’s classic novel, bringing to life the compelling tale of Quasimodo, the hunchback bell-ringer of Notre Dame, and his love for the enchanting Esmeralda. The cast, led by the sensational Patrick Page as the villainous archdeacon Claude Frollo, delivers powerful performances that leave the audience in awe.
The stage design is nothing short of breathtaking, with towering gothic arches representing Notre Dame Cathedral and a rotating centerpiece that seamlessly transitions between different scenes. The use of lighting and projection further enhances the magical atmosphere, transporting viewers to picturesque 15th-century Paris.
One of the standout moments of the night was when Ciara Renée, who portrays the captivating Esmeralda, performed the show-stopping number “The Voice of Liberty.” Her vocals were mesmerizing, effortlessly hitting high notes and showcasing an emotional depth that tugged at the heartstrings.
The musical also explores the themes of social injustice and acceptance, as Quasimodo battles against a society that fears and rejects him. This poignant message resonates with audiences, and many were moved to tears during the heart-wrenching scenes.
The music, composed by Richard Cocciante with lyrics by Luc Plamondon, is a perfect complement to the narrative, evoking a range of emotions from despair to hope. The orchestra, under the baton of conductor Koen Schoots, brings these melodies to life, enveloping the audience in a sea of harmonious sounds.
As the final notes of the musical resonated in the theater, the audience, on their feet, erupted in thunderous applause, grateful for the opportunity to witness such a remarkable production. Notre Dame de Paris has undoubtedly made its mark on the Broadway scene, captivating the hearts of New Yorkers and leaving them eagerly awaiting its next run.
In a city known for its love of theater and musicals, Notre Dame de Paris has cemented its place as one of the must-see shows of the season. With its gripping story, powerhouse performances, and stunning visuals, it’s no wonder that it has taken New York City by storm.
