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| Ted Bushman and Leslie Hobson in Theodore in the Valley |
What did Erin think?
"In wildness is the preservation of the world" (Henry David Thoreau).That's something I had cause to remember after watching Ted Bushman's delightful new folk musical Theodore in the Valley, directed by Taylor Hatch. Performed outdoors at Fort Tryon Park, and featuring a small acoustic ensemble (guitars, violin, trumpet, and cello), the show chronicles the early life of Theodore Roosevelt, 26th U.S. President and founder of America's National Parks.
Theodore, or "Teddy," begins life as a sickly, asthmatic boy who nevertheless loves the outdoors and collects plants and animals for his "museum." At his father's encouragement, Teddy is determined to overcome his physical shortcomings through strenuous exercise, working so hard his doctor fears it will kill him. But Teddy persists, and eventually overcomes all odds to become the fearless, energetic man most of us today associate with Teddy Roosevelt. Of course, that's not the whole story: along the way there's love, heartbreak, and plenty of wildness.
From hunting buffalo in the Badlands, to exploring the Western frontier, to camping in Yosemite with John Muir (who narrates the musical), Teddy turns to nature throughout his life--at first, seeking adventure and self-discovery; later, when the storms of life have buffeted him, in search of emotional healing.
But it's not simply nature--it's the wild--great open spaces and rugged, empty land in which Teddy says he feels a sort of loneliness. If he does, it's a loneliness he seems to seek again and again. Finally, as President of the U.S., Teddy creates the National Park system to preserve these wild spaces for future generations.
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| The cast and musicians of Theodore in the Valley |
The ensemble cast performs with exuberance and grace, most playing multiple roles but delineating each character so clearly that no distracting costume changes are needed. Leslie Hobson gives an especially beautiful performance as the three main women in Teddy's life: his mother, first wife Alice Lee, and second wife Edith Carow. Despite playing all three women (and in one song, alternating between two), Hobson endues each with a distinct personality and charm.
In the title role, Ted Bushman brings Theodore Roosevelt to life: balancing the man's hyperactivity and pensiveness, showing the force of his determination and the paralysis of his despair. In fact, Roosevelt emerges as somewhat larger than life. His spirit seems stronger, his love of life greater than that of the average man. He breaks his arm while horseback riding, then, with his arm in a sling, goes to a dance with his future wife.
But even as the larger than life hero of American conservationism, Roosevelt remains deeply human, and his struggles past weakness, disappointment, and heartache strike a powerful chord.
Powerful chords are also struck in the score: at times joyous, haunting, lyrical, and stirring. The music, like the rest of the show, is gentle, eloquent, yet forceful. All in all, Theodore in the Valley exudes a folksy, earthy quality that finds its natural home in, well, nature. As Teddy discovers time and again when he seeks healing in the great outdoors, communion with nature yields a fruitful harvest--much like this exuberant, charming musical.
How can I get tickets?
Check out Theodore in the Valley's Instagram page for updates. The show just concluded its run in Fort Tryon Park, but hopefully there's more to come.
How long is it?
About one hour, fifteen minutes.
What else do I need to know?
You can find more details (and hear some music) on the show's Kickstarter page.
Is it appropriate for all ages?
Definitely.
Your obedient servant,
EJK
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