“………. it’s worth noting that at the performance I attended, the number that received the biggest applause wasn’t one of those wistful soliloquies about feelin’ free, or even a high-spirited number about following your dreams. No, the loudest clapping came when Allison Blackwell, the soprano performing Violetta in “La Traviata,” sang her character’s farewell declaration of love. Something like real passion had finally entered the building.”
Photo: Corinne Louie Photography
“Allison Blackwell (who also brings the house down at Aretha Franklin) offers up a spine-chilling “Summertime.”
“Especially vivid impressions are made by, among others, Allison Blackwell as a crooning evocation of a silvery moon.”
“Allison Blackwell, heartbreaking and beautiful as a womanly Fantine, delivers ‘I Dreamed a Dream’ and other songs in a resonant mezzo voice that has everything she needs to make us feel her love and despair.” ”
Photo: Corinne Louie Photography
“In the basement, the Washing Machine transforms into a hip-swishing apparition, delightfully brought to life by Allison Blackwell (she’s great here, and even better as Caroline’s forward-thinking friend, Dotty).”
“The first act concludes with ‘Till We Reach That Day,’ performed with soul and heavy heart by Sarah’s Friend (Allison Blackwell) and mourners. By now, one attending this event has already experienced, during its first hour and a half, rapturous and penetrating musical theater. ”
“Allison Blackwell added a magnetic stage presence and expert vocals to the evening.Her voice is rich, with a wide range and very powerful. At the same time, she makes full use of vocal colors, dynamics, from soft to very loud, and facial expressions, depending on the emotion communicated. My favorites were two contrasting performances: “Always on My Mind” and “If I Can Dream.” “Always on My Mind” is a more subdued song, while in “If I Can Dream” Blackwell went into gospel mode, passionate and mighty.”
“Allison Blackwell made her series debut with a sassy “Legalize My Name” from St. Louis Woman, and later tore the house down with “The Man That Got Away.” The first act ended with the trio of Matthew Scott singing “When The Sun Comes Out,” Allison on “Stormy Weather” and Kate Baldwin with “Right as the Rain” each singing separately and together in a complicated David Loud arrangement that was simply thrilling and jaw dropping at the same time.”