Gaudi – Tabakfabrik Linz, Austria

Gaudi was performed at the Tabakfabrik Linz, Austria

Gaudi was performed at the Tabakfabrik Linz, Austria.

The Theater in der Innenstadt once again joined forces with the ARTworkers – The Theater Company to present another exciting production. This time around they offered Gaudi by the Alan Parsons Project as an Austrian premiere and I must say that the result was a real joy.

The show tells the story of Don Parker who wins an award for his biography of the renowned Spanish Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi. Mark Winner, a renowned film producer, wants the rights to do a film adaption of this book, and uses his colleague Isabella to convince Parker, who is in love with her.

The show’s libretto felt a bit weak at times, although there was potential for elaboration. The score was mostly fine, but some songs didn’t bring the story forward in any way.

The show was directed by Christian Böhm (Little Shop of Horrors, Dolce Vita und Scandale). He also translated and adapted the book (the songs remained in English) to the show and he did so solidly.

The cast consisted of Nik Raspotnik as Don Parker, who was vocally brilliant and impressed acting-wise throughout. Cordula Feuchtner, who also served as musical director with Ronald Sedlaczek (Auf der Suche nach mr Right), played Isabella. She shone on all levels throughout, but her vocals in particular were outstanding.

Wolfgang Sailer as Mark Winner did a decent job vocally but his acting was a bit too over the top and he was way too loud on stage. The role of Gaudi was portrayed by Michael Schefts, who brought great depth to the role. The ensemble consisted of Julia Preglau, Isabella Mach and students of the Viennese school Broadway Connection. Andrea Girsch and Patrick Strasser created some wonderful choreography.

There are pieces that do not require a lavish sets and effects to work and Gaudi is certainly one of them. I look forward to more productions in the future.

Ludovico Lucchesi Palli