The Warner Theater gave Liberty the opportunity to be physically realized in grand fashion, with detailed attention to the costume, light and stage design. This production blew me away by its sheer magnificence.

The theatre itself is first-class in visual beauty and quality of equipment, The people were also top-notch; all of the techs, admins, ushers and other behind-the-scenes folks were great and made us feel at home.

Collectively, the cast was serious and dedicated, and gave it’s all in performance. They truly shined. As Liberty herself, Madeline Brewer handled her larger-than-life role with grace. I was very moved by Stephanie Haring’s Emma, which was deep and heart-warming. Bif Carrington and Vince McCoy, as the champions of public opinion, gave clear and decisive arguments for their sides of the immigration debate as they both justifiably clamored for show MVP. I won’t mention everyone. They were all talented, capable players who as an ensemble, proved to be an incredibly solid base for this show to build upon.

With Liberty, John Bonanni has opened the Warner to possibilities that can only be realized with new works. He is literally setting the stage for a new era in theater, by giving new writers a place to experiment and see a project to its full potential, all the while giving the community the opportunity to join in the fun.

I must commend Igor Goldin for his enlightened direction, Dana Leslie Goldstein for producing a cohesive and driven script, Jeff Lodin and Bryan Crook for their dynamic vocal and instrumental arrangements and guidance. The band rocked. And thanks to all at the Warner Theatre for giving Liberty a home, a voice, and a world of possibilities!

-Jon Goldstein
August 19, 2012

More about Liberty, A Monumental New Musical at http://www.libertythemusical.com.

Here are a few production stills from the Warner Theater Production of Liberty.