Susan Granger’s review of “The Apple Tree” (Studio 54 – 2006-2007 season)
Glorious Kristin Chenoweth is the reason to see “The Apple Tree,” the Roundabout Theater Company’s revival of a flimsy musical by Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick that opened on Broadway in 1966. Even back then, it depended on its stars – Barbara Harris, Alan Alda and Larry Blyden – to overcome its inherent weakness of simply being a collection of comic sketches, based on stories by Mark Twain, Frank R. Stockton and Jules Feiffer with additional material by Jerome Coopersmith.
Act I, “The Diary of Adam and Eve,” opens in the Garden of Eden, where befuddled Adam (Brian d’Arcy James) and enticing Eve (Chenoweth) are discovering the wonders of the world, not to mention each other, despite the devilish duplicity of the snake (Marc Kudisch). Its outstanding musical moment occurs when she sings “What Makes Me Love Him.” Overall, it’s a delight, particularly when you recognize Alan Alda’s voice as God.
Then comes the thudding two-part Act II: a goofy rendition of “The Lady or the Tiger?” fable, set in “a semi-barbaric kingdom a long time ago,” and “Passionella” about a drab chimney sweep (Chenoweth) who yearns for Hollywood, warbling “Oh, To Be a Movie Star.” With the help of a fairy godfather (Marc Kudish), she’s transformed into her glittering, glamorous heart’s desire – with certain restrictions.
Tony-winner Kristin Chenoweth (“Wicked”) has proven herself to be a delightfully adept comedienne – with exquisite timing – as well as a classically trained soprano. Her co-stars, Brain d’Arcy James and Marc Kudish, are terrific too.
Director Gary Griffin (“Encores,” “The Color Purple”) has problems with inconsistent pacing which drags considerably as the show progresses. John Lee Beatty’s sets and Jess Goldstein’s costumes are minimally inventive, primarily because of budget restrictions, I’m sure.