Master Class

              Maria Callas was a larger than life performer and a larger than life person in her real life. Her talent is considered by many to be unparalleled and her story is a matter of intrigue for opera buffs and regular people alike. Terrence McNally has crafted a masterpiece of a play that gives a shadow of what this woman must have been like, and what made her Maria Callas. Master Class is currently in revival at The Friedman Theater on Broadway under the auspices of Manhattan Theater Club. Tyne Daly is the current link in the chain of wonderful actresses who have played this role in this play.

              Ms. Daly commands the stage completely as anyone playing Maria Callas must hope to do. Her Bravura is completely natural. There is absolutely nothing put upon about it. Not only is she over the top in every way that she should be, but she is also at times extremely funny, tender, warm, and vulnerable. Tyne Daly is giving a master class in acting in a play that happens to be titled Master Class.

             Her supporting cast suits her just fine. All three students due what their characters are intended to do. The tenor has the strongest voice of all three students, and when he sings it is truly magnificent. Sierra Boggess is recreating the role that won Audra McDonald her second of four Tony Awards. I didn't see miss McDonald in the role, but she must have given a mighty fine performance to have won a Tony for such a small role. Miss. Boggess does fine in the part, but no better then fine.

           Overall this is a stunning play that is receiving a first rate Broadway revival with a tremendous star in the role. It only plays until Sept 4th, 2011 so I URGE you to see it if you are in the New York area. You will be completely mesmerized from start to finish.