the mommy avenger

I had the pleasure of attending the Utah Symphony’s “Bravo Broadway!” concert at Abravanel Hall in Salt Lake City tonight. As a devoted fan of musical theater, I was eager to experience an evening that promised a journey through Broadway’s most beloved classics and contemporary hits. The performance not only met but exceeded my expectations, leaving me with a renewed appreciation for the magic of live music and theater.

From the moment I entered Abravanel Hall, the atmosphere was electric. Couples, families, and groups of friends filled the venue, all buzzing with anticipation. The Utah Symphony had curated a special program for the Valentine’s Day weekend, featuring timeless melodies from musicals such as Hamilton, Wicked, The Phantom of the Opera, Spamalot, and Company. 

Under the baton of guest conductor John Gennaro Devlin, the Utah Symphony delivered a performance that was both dynamic and nuanced. Devlin’s energy and passion were palpable, guiding the orchestra through complex arrangements with precision and flair. His connection with both the musicians and the audience created an immersive experience that drew everyone into the heart of each composition.

The evening was elevated by the exceptional talents of three Broadway veterans: Scarlett Strallen, Dee Roscioli, and Hugh Panaro.

• Scarlett Strallen: Known for her roles in Mary Poppins and Singin’ in the Rain, Strallen’s soprano voice was both powerful and emotive. She blew us away with her voice is “The Phantom of the Opera”. It gave me chills.
• Dee Roscioli: With credits including Wicked and The Cher Show, Roscioli brought a rich, soulful quality to her performances. Her rendition of “Defying Gravity” from Wicked was a standout moment, capturing the song’s soaring ambition and emotional depth.
• Hugh Panaro: Best known for his portrayal of the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera, Panaro’s tenor voice resonated throughout the hall. His performance of “Music of the Night” was mesmerizing, embodying the Phantom’s allure and vulnerability.

The chemistry between the vocalists was evident, especially during ensemble numbers where their harmonies blended seamlessly, creating a rich tapestry of sound that paid homage to Broadway’s finest moments.

The program was thoughtfully curated to showcase a range of musical styles and eras. From the classic allure of The Phantom of the Opera to the modern rhythms of Hamilton, the selection offered something for every theater enthusiast.

Highlights included a medley from Sweeney Todd, where the dark, intricate melodies were brought to life with chilling intensity. The orchestra’s rendition of the overture from Company was both lively and precise, setting the stage for the vocal performances that followed. We even were treated to the orchestra’s ABBA medley, which we loved.

Attending “Bravo Broadway!” on Valentine’s weekend was a delightful way to celebrate the holiday. The shared experience of live music and theater fostered a sense of community among attendees. Couples exchanged smiles during romantic duets, while groups of friends tapped their feet to upbeat numbers. The ambiance of Abravanel Hall, with its stunning architecture and acoustics, added to the evening’s charm.

In an age where digital entertainment is ubiquitous, the “Bravo Broadway!” concert was a poignant reminder of the unique magic that live performances offer. The synergy between the Utah Symphony, the guest vocalists, and the audience created an atmosphere of shared joy and appreciation. It’s experiences like these that underscore the importance of supporting the arts within our communities.

The Utah Symphony, under the masterful direction of John Gennaro Devlin, along with the phenomenal guest vocalists, delivered an evening that will linger in my memory for years to come. For those who cherish the arts, events like this are a testament to the vibrant cultural tapestry that organizations like the Utah Symphony continue to weave.

As I left Abravanel Hall that evening, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for the performers, the production team, and everyone involved in bringing “Bravo Broadway!” to life. It was a night of music, emotion, and connection—a true embodiment of the magic of Broadway right here in Utah.

_{*we were invited to facilitate a feature, all opinions are our own*}