Monica Rose Slater (Rose)
The Oakland Theatre Project and New Performance Traditions, existential musical, “Ghost Quartet” by David Malloy, magnificently unravels a complex, multi-generational fairytale. The paranormal mystery unfolds through four storytellers who portray multiple characters and sporadically travel through time.
Malloy’s diverse musical styles—ranging from folk and electropop to doo-wop, jazz, honky-tonk, and ballads—mirror the essence of this intricate, circular tale. Structured in multiple “sides” (originally a double album), the plot centers around two sisters, Rose and Pearl, and an astronomer. The four transition back and forth across centuries. They encounter ghosts, ancestors, love, and loss, leaving the audience to piece together the story.
The cozy stage, adorned with carpets, lamps, and a circular arrangement of candles reminiscent of a witch’s den, enhances the eerie atmosphere designed by William Thomas Hodgson. French doors draped with translucent curtains further contribute to the unsettling environment. The skilled actors/musicians play an array of quirky instruments, including a dulcimer, Celtic harp, and erhu, (to name a few) adding to the show’s unique sound. Ami Nashimoto is note-worthy on the cello, as well as versatile actor Rinde Eckert, whose eclectic musical talents include piano, drums, and multiple string instruments.
Ami Nashimoto (celloist/actor)
Lighting techniques by consultant Dr. Stephanie Anne Johnson create varying-colored atmospheres and moods throughout each chapter. Ghostly lamps flash green light and blue hues hang like cigarette smoke in the air.
The characters introduce themselves and their stories in the opening number, “I Don’t Know,” where they express confusion about life, the universe, and everything. This establishes one of the musical’s central existential themes: the struggle with identity and the quest for the authentic self.
The lyrics resonate deeply:
“I don’t know who I am, I’m not here,
I stay awake every night, waiting for a glimpse to appear.
I got a thousand and one stories, and everyone is a lie.”
The musical cleverly repeats phrases that keep the audience grounded in the plot. Each character represents themselves in different reincarnations. Videographer Adam Elder Montanaro enhances the experience with exquisite video transitions, such as diamond-like stars during the astronomer’s chapter.
Among the highlights are two uplifting “Spirit” numbers, “Any Kind of Dead Person” and “Four Friends.” Both provide refreshing comic relief from the dark stories. The cast croons about various types of friends—specifically, beloved spirits like Johnnie Walker and Jameson. While in “Any Kind of Dead Person,” the audience members are invited to join in with tambourines and maracas.
The vocal and acting performances are exceptional, showcasing the talents of the four cast members. Director William Thomas Hodgson strikes the perfect balance across all aspects of the musical, including voices, pacing, and movements.
Rinde Eckert (Astonomer)
Mesmerizing soprano Monica Rose Slater, the Pearls, hits a wide range of notes with ease, captivating the audience with her emotional depth. The harmony between Slater and soprano Veronica Renner, who also plays the Roses, is exceptional. Renner’s portrayal is enhanced by her dramatic facial expressions. Michael Perez skillfully brings together the chorus of extras including a Shaman, a bear, a fool and The Pusher.
Veronica Renner (Pearl)
Oakland Theatre Project with New Performance Traditions’ “Ghost Quartet” is a mind-bending, fascinating experience that is well worth the ride.
You’ll want to see it again, and maybe again.
“Ghost Quartet” music, lyrics, and text written by David Malloy, produced by Oakland Theatre Project with New Performance Traditions– info: www.oaklandtheatreproject.org through Dec. 8, 2024
Cast: Rinde Eckert, Michael Perez, Ami Nashimoto, Veronica Renner, Monica Rose Slater