The novel version of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil was published in January of 1994. The film version, released in 1997, was directed and produced by Clint Eastwood and stars John Cusack, Kevin Spacey, and Jude Law. The World Premiere of the musical version is now playing at the Goodman Theatre through August 2024.
Welcome to a true crime story taking place in Savannah, Georgia in the 1980s. Jim Williams is preparing to host the social event of the year, his Christmas Soirée. His assistant, Danny, is giving him a lot of issues including going on tirades where he wrecks havoc on the house. At the same time, Lady Chablis Is starring in her own show at The Shed Shack. That is until the owner tells her to reign it in and she immediately quits to find a new venue.
This production is a fully fledged Broadway sized musical with 26 cast members. It truly expands the world from the novel and the film. The set design by Christopher Oram is very impressive. While the plot is interesting, there is one thing that is missing, the conflict with the darker side of Savannah.
J. Harrison Ghee is outstanding as Lady Chablis. She is met with a great applause when she first enters, to which she says, “Let me earn it”, and earn it she definitely does. Tom Hewitt is superb as Jim Williams, the master host at the top of the social ladder. Austin Colby is excellent as Danny, the youthful assistant who is looking for fun and love. Sierra Boggess is great as the leading socialite so proud to be invited to the White House.
Overall, this musical does a fantastic job of bringing the world of Savannah to the stage, but it needs some work to add the tension between the characters.
Cost of a ticket: $100 (Main Floor – Sides)
PlaylistHQ Economic Rating: Worth It –
Rating Scale: Exceptional Value > Worth It > Discounted > Go for Free > Don’t Bother
Get tickets now for Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil – The Musical through August 11th!
Quinn Delaney
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