Susan Granger’s review of ‘The Gardens of Anuncia” (Mitzi E. Newhouse Theater at Lincoln Center)
Rather than reading a biography, what a joy it is to watch the early life of famed Broadway choreographer Graciela Daniele in post-World War II Argentina, unfold on-stage at the Mitzi E. Newhouse Theater at Lincoln Center.
While present-day Ms. Daniele is embodied by 75 year-old Priscilla Lopez, who plays the title role of contemporary Anuncia, she is seen as a young woman (Kalyn West) who was raised in Buenos Aires in the ‘40s and ‘50s during the regime of Juan Peron and his wife Evita.
As a curious, unruly child, Anuncia studied ballet and, since she was a gifted dancer, her career took her to Paris, then New York, where she made her Broadway debut in 1964 in “What Makes Sammy Run?”
Three self-sacrificing women were pivotal in Anuncia’s existence: Mami, her mother (Eden Espinosa), who loathes the authoritarian government where she works as a secretary; Tia, her aunt (Andres Burns) who enjoys the company of men but maintains her independence; and Granmama, her feisty grandmother (Mary Testa), who is “agreeably separated” from her seafaring husband.
By example, they impart determination, resilience and compassion to ambitious Anuncia, whose father deserted the family when she was six. Interacting with these strong, matriarchal women, Enrique Acevedo and Tally Sessions juggle the various male roles, including a ‘magical realism’ deer that whimsically warbles one of the more memorable songs, “Dance While You Can.”
Originally produced in 2021 at the Globe Theater in San Diego, it’s the occasionally repetitive creation of composer/lyricist/librettist Michael John LaChiusa and perceptively directed by 84 year-old Ms. Daniele herself, sharing co-choreographic duties with Alex Sanchez.
According to LaChiusa’s program notes, “’Anuncia’ is not a biomusical; it’s more of a fantasia on a life, a riff on a memory play.” Sets are by Mark Wendland, costumes by Toni-Leslie James, lighting by Jules Fisher & Peggy Eisenhauer, recreated by David Lander and sound by Drew Levy.
Apparently Anuncia traces her unusual name back to Biblical times when the Archangel Gabriel told Mary that, if she consented, she would bear God’s son, indicating that – although she was chosen – Mary was still free.
Freedom is a prevailing theme of this small-scale musical, which is quite charming and engaging, I just wished for more about Ms. Daniele’s later career which eventually garnered her 10 Tony nominations for directing and choreography, including her contributions to “Ragtime” and “Once On This Island.” In 2021, she received a special Lifetime Achievement Tony.
“The Gardens of Anuncia” plays at the Mitzi E. Newhouse Theater at Lincoln Center through December 31st.