 There are some shows you see that you
don't want to end. Birth of the Cool comes into this category.
This is an absolutely absorbing fusion of narrative and jazz. At
this point I should admit to being a jazz enthusiast, but this
production should a universal appeal.
The narrative outlines the story of the
1950's Beat generation of writers Kerouac, Ginsberg and Burroughs.
In America of that period marked by the Cold War, McCarthyism and
consumerism the Beat writers rebelled against accepted morality.
Living in New York, they lived life to excess - drugs, drink and
sex. The Beats were inspired by the revolutionary jazz of the New
York scene - the bebop of Charlie Parker and the cool of Miles
Davis, for example. The jazz trio on stage provide a beautiful and
natural link to the narrative.
Although set in what seems a far-off
period, this production has relevance to all age groups. It was
the Beat generation of writers who, despite their self destructive
life style, inspired the mass movements of protest of the last 50
years.
Full credit to John Turnbull, narrator
and co writer (along with the Director, Camilla Rountree), for a
stylish performance. Also to the band, Paul Cutlan (composer,
saxophones, clarinets), Fabian Hevia (percussion, vibraphone) and
Steve Arie (bass) for musicianship of the highest order.
Birth of the Cool is an inventive and compelling theatrical
treat.
*****
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