I had the opportunity to see Girl From The North Country last night at Playhouse Square.
Reviews have been all over the board, and it's based on the music of Bob Dylan, and I don't really know his music too much.
Sometimes reading reviews ahead of time can influence your thoughts on a performance, so I was determined to not let that happen.
Set in Duluth, Minnesota during the Great Depression of the 1930's, the show features 22 songs from Bob Dylan.
It follows the owners of a boarding house and the guests that occupy said house. Everyone has a story, and the stories are bleak.
Not knowing Bob Dylan and his music didn't hamper my enjoyment of the show, but there are a few things you should know before going.
1. The songs do not match up with the storyline. Make You Feel My Love is a Dylan song. I know it because of Garth Brooks and Adele. The song does not add or take away from the show.
2. There is a minimalist vibe to the entire production. Simple sets, simple audio production. It has a high school musical tone to it all.
3. This is not Wicked, there are no special effects, and you may even think you spent too much money buying a ticket.
But here's the thing. I didn't fully appreciate the show until after the show was done. The music doesn't make you tap your toes like The Wiz did. The show doesn't make you re-read the lyrics like Hamilton did. In fact, the show is very melancholy in nature. You do find ways to relate to all the characters, since the Great Depression makes you re-evaluate life and what's important..and how people struggle during trying times. I found myself thinking about the show for most of the next day.
You rise to your feet when the show is over, but you are not in a celebratory and enthusiastic mood. You are left with food for thought, and conversation.
And if you like Bob Dylan or are curious about his music, this gives you yet another reason to enjoy his works in a unique and entertaining way.
The Girl From The North Country is at Playhouse Square through November 19th
Get tickets and more info HERE