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 Notre Dame de Paris multiple times, the author of this article couldn’t help but feel the thrill that arises as soon as the first notes of the musical’s immortal success, “Times of the Cathedrals,” fill the air. This excitement was shared by the approximately 2,500 spectators gathered inside the auditorium near Central Park, creating a perfect and continuous communion between the performers and the audience.
Although the show is presented in French, the emotion conveyed by the words of Luc Plamondon and the music of Richard Cocciante quickly transcended any language barrier. While surtitles in English were projected on screens, all eyes remained riveted on the talented cast throughout the premiere. The plot of Notre Dame de Paris, inspired by Victor Hugo’s classic work, has become an integral part of popular culture, making the story of Quasimodo, Esmeralda, Frollo, Gringoire, and their journey back to 1482 a familiar one.
Notre Dame de Paris has become a well-oiled machine, having been applauded in 20 countries since its creation in 1998. The choreography, stage design, and vocal performances were all impressive, highlighting the show’s excellence. Daniel Lavoie, the only Canadian actor in the cast, delivered a phenomenal performance as Frollo, the main antagonist. Gian Marco Schiaretti also stood out as a worthy successor to Bruno Pelletier, portraying Gringoire with charisma and smoothness, while showcasing his impressive vocal range.
Angelo Del Vecchio’s portrayal of Quasimodo, the bell ringer of Notre Dame, was a standout performance, with his renditions of “God the World is Unfair” and “Danse mon Esmeralda” leaving a lasting impact on the audience.
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, providing another opportunity to experience this captivating musical.
How did the power of the music and captivating performances of the cast in Notre Dame de Paris overcome any linguistic limitations
He language barrier did not hinder the audience’s ability to connect with the story and the emotions portrayed on stage. The power of the music, combined with the captivating performances of the cast, transcended any linguistic limitations.
The story of Notre Dame de Paris, inspired by Victor Hugo’s classic novel, follows the tragic tale of the hunchback Quasimodo and his unrequited love for the beautiful Esmeralda. The musical explores themes of love, acceptance, and the cruel prejudices of society.
As the performances unfolded, the audience was completely drawn into the world of 15th-century Paris. The elaborate sets and stunning costumes transported everyone to the Notre Dame Cathedral, with its towering spires and haunting atmosphere. The choreography was equally impressive, with the dancers gracefully expressing the complex emotions and conflicts of the characters.
The cast, led by the immensely talented Angelo Del Vecchio as Quasimodo, delivered powerful and heartfelt performances. Del Vecchio’s portrayal of the misunderstood hunchback was both poignant and captivating, evoking sympathy from the audience. Hiba Tawaji was equally impressive in the role of Esmeralda, displaying a mesmerizing stage presence and vocal prowess.
The standout moment of the evening was undoubtedly the performance of “Belle,” a show-stopping number that showcased the extraordinary vocal range and power of the cast. The stunning harmonies and soaring melodies swept through the auditorium, leaving the audience in awe.
Notre Dame de Paris is not just a musical; it is a theatrical spectacle that captivates the senses and touches the soul. The seamless integration of music, dance, and storytelling creates an immersive experience that leaves a lasting impact on the audience.
The success of Notre Dame de Paris in New York City is a testament to the enduring appeal of this iconic musical. Its universal themes and timeless music continue to resonate with audiences around the world, transcending language and cultural barriers.
As the final notes of the musical echoed through the auditorium, the audience erupted into thunderous applause and rose to their feet in appreciation. Notre Dame de Paris had conquered New York City, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who witnessed its brilliance.
This article was previously titled “Notre Dame de Paris Takes New York by Storm.”
“Watching Notre Dame de Paris in New York was an absolute delight! The standing ovation at the end was truly well-deserved. The production captured the magic of the iconic cathedral and delivered a powerful and emotionally charged performance. Bravo!”
“An electrifying performance that captivated the audience, Notre Dame de Paris delivered a stunning premiere in New York, leaving the crowd in awe. The standing ovation was well-deserved, as the production showcased exceptional talent and a breathtaking representation of the beloved tale. A must-see for theatre enthusiasts!”