Quick Hit Theater Review: Murder Ballad

Murder Ballad
Conceived by and with Book and Lyrics by Julia Jordan
Music and Lyrics by Juliana Nash
Choreography by Doug Varone
Directed by Trip Cullman
Union Square Theatre

What's It All About?
A love triangle gone wrong, cleverly set in a bar. The action takes place behind and on top of the bar, set up in between two sections of seats facing it. Actors also venture up into the seats under the direction of Trip Cullman. The story is told by a singer/narrator (Rebecca Naomi Jones). When Sara (Caissie Levy) and badboy Tom (Will Swenson) break off their hot and heavy relationship, she turns to steady Phd. Michael (John Ellison Conlee) and despite her self loathing and distrust of people, she fins something "normal" in him and they settle down and have a child. Sara has it all, but feels trapped. She starts to think about Tom and they reunite leading to tragic consequences.

What are the Highlights?
Really great concept (we're seeing more and more of this inclusive theater) with super good music and direction. The bar is functional. You can purchase refreshments there prior to the show, then enjoy them during. The lyrics are exceptional and drive the rock opera where all of the voices blend perfectly. We know someone will die -- the title is Murder Ballad, after all, but we're not really sure who or how. One plot point, that I won't divulge in the interest of not spoiling it for you, was an irritation to me throughout the show until the very end when the answer revealed sheer genius in the libretto. The music contains chords and notes that convey the emotions of the characters. I felt exhausted at the the end of the 90 minutes with no intermission -- but in a good way.

What are the Lowlights?
Sometimes it is hard to hear all of the words due to volume. Because the lyrics are so crucial, it's hard to follow the action unless you pay strict attention.

More information:
This very good musical from Jonathan Larson winner Nash played a sold-out engagement at Manhattan Theatre Club before making this Off-Broadway transfer to the Union Square Theatre, 100 East 17^th St., NYC. The strictly limited nine-week engagement runs through Sept. 29.

Christians might also like to know:
-- Language
--Sexual moves
-- God's name taken in vain