Follies In Concert

Follies In Concert is a 1986 film that flawlessly captures the vibrant spirit of performing arts and theatre. This unique film documents the whirlwind of drama, emotion, and sheer talent that pervades the staging process of a Broadway musical. The film features Andre Gregory, Stephen Sondheim, and Arthur Rubin in monumental roles, along with a cast of other phenomenal artists, giving the viewer an awe-inspiring peek into the vast world of musical theatre.

The film revolves around the grand 'Follies' concert performance that took place at Lincoln Centre in New York City in September 1985. Carefully interweaving behind-the-scenes footage and the iconic performance itself, the film serves as both a backstage documentary and a concert depiction, creating a rare blend of raw and polished performance. This film offers an insider's look at the nerve-wracking, yet exhilarating process of staging a renowned and complex musical like Follies.

At the center of this film are the characters represented by Andre Gregory, an accomplished actor and director, Stephen Sondheim, the composer and lyricist of the Follies, and Arthur Rubin, a veteran of Broadway musicals. Gregory, responsible for artistic direction, elegantly stands at the helm of the production, ensuring everything comes together perfectly on the big night, while Sondheim, with decades of experience in the musical theatre industry, offers his unique melody and lyrical prowess to the production. Rubin, on the other hand, is actively involved in every stage of the concert process, keeping the musical elements of the project in perfect harmony.

The film opens with the casting process, revealing the tough decisions and fascinating techniques involved, and then takes us on a journey through the many rounds of rehearsals, displaying the cast's euphoric highs and daunting lows. It exhibits the grit, dedication, and incredibly high stakes involved in such a large-scale production. As the camera trails along with the cast and crew, the viewer becomes a part of the team, sharing the anxiety and the excitement, leading up to the unforgettable performance night.

The distinctive energy of Follies In Concert is owed, in part, to the extraordinary resonance of Sondheim’s score. Stephen Sondheim's music and lyrics often have a deep psychological dimension, reflecting the complicated lives and emotions of his characters. This aspect of his work is very much present in Follies In Concert, making it a treat for both musical theatre aficionados and those new to the genre.

As the narrative unfolds further, we observe the essential support provided by Arthur Rubin, as the musical director, who curates the musical elements of the performance. His humanity and passion come forth as he nurtures the project to stage, indirectly becoming the emotional backbone of the production.

Coming from director Michael Houldey, a veteran documentarian, the film skillfully showcases the magical synthesis between theater, music, intellect, and emotion. This documentary-style journey safely ushers the viewer into the theatrical sphere, transcending the boundaries of the screen and truly engaging them in an enriching experience.

What sets Follies In Concert apart is the omission of the seen-it-all, done-it-all vibe that often characterizes other behind-the-scenes documentaries. There are no omnipotent voices or pretentious interviews in this film. Instead, it lets the viewer feel the palpable tension and electrifying anticipation of opening night. It allows the audience to experience the hushed silence before the curtain rises and the delirious relief when the applause comes pouring.

A highly recommended watch, Follies In Concert goes beyond typical documentaries or musicals. It masterfully interlaces these two genres to create a compelling narrative that reveals the inner workings of a Broadway styled concert, the rigors and triumphs of theater life, and the inherent beauty of musical storytelling. In all its elements, Follies In Concert is a celebration of voices, talents, and the timeless art of performance. From the scenes of rigorous rehearsals to the ultimate exhilaration of the final performance, the film brilliantly captures and conveys the soul of a fascinating piece of musical theatre.