Susan Granger’s review of “Nine” (Roundabout Theater at Eugene O’Neill, 2002-2003)
If you have to choose just one musical to see this season, make it “Nine”! Handsome, charming matinee idol Antonio Banderas and 16 – count ’em – glamorous women add up to make this revival the hottest ticket on Broadway.
Written by Arthur Kopit and based on Federico Fellini’s autobiographical film “8 1/2,” the story revolves around Guido Contini (Banderas), a celebrated, self-absorbed Italian movie director who is desperately trying to plot a new film he’s been commissioned to direct. Seeking sanctuary at a health spa in Venice, this self-styled Casanova is “visited” in a stream-of-consciousness fantasy by all the women he’s loved since the age of nine – including his wistful, long-suffering wife (Mary Stuart Masterson), tantalizing mistress (Jane Krakowski), reluctant leading lady/muse (Laura Benanti), Parisian producer (Chita Rivera) and mother (Mary Beth Peil). Director David Leveaux parades the women up and down a steep spiral staircase on Scott Pask’s simple yet spectacular set, and Jane Krakowski’s dazzling, gravity-defying descent on a swing during “A Call From the Vatican” is a sensational showstopper! Why the stage is flooded like the Grand Canal during the second act remains a mystery but Antonio Banderas, damp but undaunted, sloshes on, gamely singing with resonant vibrato.
While Maury Yeston’s score, superbly orchestrated by Jonathan Tunick, doesn’t offer unforgettable tunes, it punctuates and propels the emotional, Fellini-esque character study of an ambivalent, petulant man-child. In comparison to the original 1982 version, this shamelessly inventive, revitalized version soars. “Nine” is exuberant, eye-thrilling theatrical entertainment!