Comments on: The Bernstein/Kosky “Candide” At Komische Oper Berlin: “A Really Spectacular Disaster”? http://operetta-research-center.org/candide-komische-oper-berlin/ The #1 Archive for Musical Theater Tue, 24 Feb 2026 19:54:13 +0000 hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=3.9.40 By: Jim Smith http://operetta-research-center.org/candide-komische-oper-berlin/#comment-5846 Mon, 26 Nov 2018 19:54:22 +0000 http://operetta-research-center.org/?p=16176#comment-5846 I approached Ohio Light Opera’s 2018 production of “Candide” with trepidation. Well, really, one approaches any production of “Candide” with incipient dread. However, all of that was quickly swept away by what transpired, which was revelatory. Somehow, Stephen Daigles’ alchemy, a capable cast, brilliant conceptualization, and beautiful production design, all came together to make this famously tricky piece flow, sing, soar, and yes: work…a most rewarding, moving experience.
Incidentally, I did see the 1958 concert production (Hellman’s book) with Martyn Green, Robert Rounseville, Mary Costa and Irra Pettina, but don’t ask me to elaborate. There are some tenuous memories of Costa and Green delivering the goods.
Candide / 1958 Concert Tour
http://www.sondheimguide.com/Candide/58tour.html/

]]> By: John Groves http://operetta-research-center.org/candide-komische-oper-berlin/#comment-5844 Mon, 26 Nov 2018 09:16:39 +0000 http://operetta-research-center.org/?p=16176#comment-5844 It’s by no means Bernstein’s best work – “Wonderful Town” is a much better show but comparatively rarely staged! the main problem with Candide is the book which just doesn’t work, even in the several revisions it has been given. The UK National Theatre production was probably its best outing, but nothing like as successful as the NT’s other musicals Still, it should be worth seeing at KOB.

By the way, the original UK production starred he incomparable Max Adrian. If you are too young (Kevin!) to have heard him, do try to obtain the original UK cast recording – very stylish.

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