"Dead Man Walking opens with nude actors on stage and a horrific crime scene that's shocking even by today's standards. The multilevel set design by Michael McGarty and lighting by Brian Nason cohere to create a distinct, new world on stage of eerie woodland and oppressive barbed-wire fencing. McNally's libretto is rich as ever, and under the baton of Patrick Summers, who also conducted the 2000 premiere, Heggie's expressive, complex score soars beautifully."
"And it's not as if capital punishment has receded into the past. Since Dead Man Walking 's premiere, California voters have rejected two state propositions to repeal the death penalty, and Governor Gavin Newsom placed a moratorium on executions just six years ago, in 2019. Which brings us to Ryan McKinny as death row inmate Joseph De Rocher, who wrestles with his conscience, worries for his mother and fears his ultimate fate."
"Mezzo-soprano Jamie Barton, as Sister Helen Prejean, now has the task of bringing Dead Man Walking 's moral quandary to life. Though Barton was raised in the south - the story takes place in Louisiana - she plays the conflicted nun a little too meekly, combined with the occasional smirk or chortle. The role of Prejean calls for something in the middle, a steadier balance of pious trepidation and down-to-earth humanity."
Dead Man Walking begins with nude actors and a shocking crime scene, set within a multilevel design evoking eerie woodland and oppressive barbed-wire fencing. Michael McGarty's set and Brian Nason's lighting cohere to create a distinct stage world. McNally's libretto remains rich, and Patrick Summers leads a soaring, expressive score by Heggie. Capital punishment remains timely: California rejected repeal measures and Governor Newsom placed a moratorium on executions in 2019. Ryan McKinny portrays Joseph De Rocher with conscience-struck pathos, and Rod Gilfry stands out as Owen Hart. Susan Graham delivers an emotional turn as the mother. Jamie Barton brings a meekness to Sister Helen that occasionally undercuts the role's needed balance, while duets with Brittany Renee and full-cast choruses produce truly powerful operatic moments.
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