Displaying items by tag: Amazing Grace

Josh Young and Erin Mackey were just wonderful in their portrayal of John Newton and his love interest.  Their conversation and interaction on stage was only topped by their beautiful voices.  "Amazing Grace" is the true account of John Newton's  journey from being a selfish, spoiled, 'set in ways' young man to being a powerful voice and advocate against slavery in the mid 1700's.  It seemed obvious that John's early years were much influenced by his father, Captain Newton played by Tom Hewitt.  The captains frustration with his fool hearty son would eventually cause him to take drastic measures for John's own sake.  The trade business was the source of family wealth.  Tragically human trafficking was an acceptable means of trade that John not only accepted, but participated in causing his dear Mary Catlett to appeal to his heart and conscious to no avail.

 

The stage could only present the affliction and heartbreak of a people experiencing unjust slavery.  Because of that, the emotion of what was happening in that historical period couldn't come across to the audience as it should.  The greater part of the performance concentrated on John's life before his conversion.  It was anticipated but left hanging when he almost drowned and after being saved still continued in his same ways and mindsets.  This theme lingered longer than needed from an observers point of view.  The 2nd near death experience, and the heartfelt, concerned words of Mary awakened his spirit to be convicted of his sin and folly, and genuinely move his life forward to right wrongs.  The grand finally following the performance was the whole cast singing 'Amazing Grace'.  

 

"When they sang, it brought me to tears" was one person's comment.  She added, that she had never seen the movie or knew the story, but compared to other theater experiences she would give it 3 stars.

 

"Amazing Grace" is certainly worth seeing, although some may be surprised that it concentrates more on Johns life prior to his stand against slavery and perseverance to keep fighting against all odds.   As a reviewer I would have loved more moments to stand up and cheer!  All actors were gifted and the scenes flowed together wonderfully.  Get your ticket and enjoy!   (Performance at the Bank of America Theater through November 2nd)