Eleven years ago I saw Love, Janis off-broadway at what is now known as Le Poisson Rouge. It was my first exposure to the blues rocker’s music and although I totally enjoyed it, it was probably the last time I heard any of her music until last Tuesday night when I was invited to see a performance of A Night With Janis Joplin at the Lyceum Theatre.
The story was similar to that of Love, Janis (as in it was the story of her life) except it also focused on the blues singers who influenced Joplin greatly, such as Nina Simone, Odetta, and Aretha Franklin. The audience was treated to a platter of Joplin’s greatest songs, as well as those from her influences.
The audience was full of baby boomers who were jumping in their seats with joy, and standing after most of the larger numbers. It was thrilling, to say the least. I imagine it’s how I’ll act at a Broadway show about Green Day’s career in the distant future.
The entire cast was great, but special mention must be given to Mary Bridget Davies who flawlessly portrayed Joplin. My friend who was with me told me he thought she sounded exactly like the real thing. My only criticism of A Night With Janis Joplin was the length. It was two and a half hours long, including an intermission. It would’ve been just as enjoyable to skip the intermission and cut it down to an hour and forty five minutes.
Other than that: A Night with Janis Joplin is a good night indeed.
Full disclosure: Tickets were provided by the producers.
That Girl Allison 