Witness Uganda at American Repertory Theatre

A Truly Magical Piece

by Lucy Opalka

         

   Musicals are powerful. And one of the most powerful musicals I’ve ever seen is Witness Uganda. Witness Uganda is a musical about a man, named Griffin, and his experiences with charity work in Uganda. He suffers through hardships and awful surprises. The musical also touches on controversies such as homosexuality and religion. However, the way the musical sets itself apart from others is through the cast’s emotional connection to their characters and the music.

            Witness Uganda is unique as it is not only is based on true events, but it also includes the original people cast as characters. The original Griffin plays himself in the musical, which adds a depth to the performance. Knowing this, his emotions seem more realistic than if some other actor was in his place. As well, all the actors seem to know and understand their characters in a way that feels so genuine and truthful. They capture the characters in a touchable, realistic way. These characters breathe.

            Also, the music composed by Matt Gould is beautiful. It is a life force. The music is the real basis of the musical. The pain of the Ugandans is woven so freely into the music you feel the chords resonating in your heart. Gould re-spun the original melody several times to include different drum beats and solos. But the melody is so haunting it is not boring. The repetition drums into your head how the whole cast is made up of amazing, talented singers. Gould also leads the pit with energy, and the decision to put the musicians on the stage is only adds to the feeling of how everyone has been blessed with huge amounts of talent.

            Overall, the musical is a must-see. The actors are fantastic in every way. The set design is creative and perfectly shows the mood. The lighting is a perfect accent, portraying the warmth of Africa and the coldness of New York City. The choreography is enlightening and so enthralling it makes you feel alive and included just by watching.

            Witness Uganda is the type of show that makes you want to jump onto the stage and join in. It has an unexplainable energy, and I would recommend it to everyone.