Grand Hotel 35th Anniversary Cast Reunion
Coming right on the heels of the New York Dance Festival, Michael and Vanda performed as the Blind Countess and the Gigolo in the 35th Anniversary Cast Reunion of Grand Hotel at 54 Below.
The concept of the Grand Hotel, a captivating theme since the release of the 1932 movie starring Greta Garbo, has mesmerized audiences for nearly a century. This classic film, inspired by Vicki Baum’s 1929 novel "Menschen im Hotel," set the stage for exploring intricate human stories within the confines of a hotel. The story's enduring appeal led to various adaptations, including the 1958 version set in contemporary Rome and the critically acclaimed 1989 Broadway production, which under the direction of Tommy Tune and with additional music and lyrics by Maury Yeston, garnered 12 Tony Award nominations and won five, including best direction and choreography.
In the original production, the roles of the Blind Countess and the Gigolo, performed by Yvonne Marceau and Pierre Dulaine, were not just characters but embodiments of elegance and emotion. Their theatrical Bolero became an iconic dance piece. This spirit was vividly recaptured in the recent 35th Anniversary Cast Reunion of Grand Hotel at 54 Below, where Michael Choi and Vanda Polakova brought these characters to life once again, albeit in a much smaller space. Directed and adapted by original cast member Walter Willison, this reunion was a masterclass in storytelling and staging, delivering the essence of Grand Hotel while navigating the spatial constraints of 54 Below. The event stood out for its immersive use of space, with highlights like “Let’s Take a Glass Together” performed amidst the audience, creating an interactive and engaging experience reminiscent of "old Berlin."
The reunion saw several original cast members reprising their roles with a blend of nostalgia and freshness. David Jackson and David White, the “Jimmys,” infused joy in their performances, while Susan Wood Duncan's portrayal of Flaemmchen and Bob Stillman's vocal prowess as the Baron were particularly noteworthy. Timothy Jerome and Ken Jennings revisited their roles, combining the required illness and gusto for their characters. Cabaret icon Karen Akers's return as Rafaella was as mesmerizing as ever, showcasing her unique talent.
Alex Rybeck's musical direction, supported by Ray Kilday on bass carried the score and gave great accompaniment to the singers. Michael Notardonato's dual role as Associate Director and Choreographer was crucial in bringing the show to life. Mitchell Bloom's costume curation added an extra layer of authenticity to the production. He also worked on the original production and was a dynamo behind the scenes getting everyone kitted and into place. He even had a bit as a man of the law leading Preysing away in shame.
The event featured a touching homage to the original production's legacy. Jennifer Bassey Davis's grace and charm in the role of Elizaveta Grushinskaya were a highlight, as was the participation of Harper Lee Andrews and Susie McCollum, daughters of original cast members, in roles their mothers first portrayed. The audiences, including luminaries like Marilyn Maye, Lee Roy Reams, Maury Yeston, and a birthday-celebrating Tommy Tune, added to the performances’ glamour and poignancy.
Willison’s direction transcended a mere performance; it was a celebration of a community, a sentiment echoed by Karen Akers who noted Tune’s perception of his companies as family. This reunion, the third of its kind, filled the house with warmth and camaraderie, underscoring the unique bonds formed by the cast of Grand Hotel.
In conclusion, the 35th Anniversary Cast Reunion of Grand Hotel at 54 Below was more than a nostalgic revisit to a beloved story; it was a testament to the timeless appeal of the narrative and the enduring bonds of its artistic community. Michael Choi and Vanda Polakova, along with their fellow cast members, didn't just pay tribute to their roles; they brought them to life in a manner that honored the past while showcasing the evergreen nature of the Grand Hotel's allure.
The livestream may be over, but you can see a bit of the show with Michael and Vanda dancing here…