“Action speaks louder than words” is the crux of what these men in blue (Matt Goldman, Phil Stanton and Chris Wink) represent, and what they appear to be doing: Changing the way people view various forms of technology and the color blue. Much the same way Intel chipped its way into the world of technology, "Blue Man Group" have multi-dimensionally shaped their own amazingly rare form of entertainment on stage – touching the hearts and lives of millions across the globe who not only learn to view technology differently, but also life – without saying a single word (literally). Kudos.
Being able to touch people’s mind, hearts and the way someone views technology (regardless of whether or not they even understand it) is a feat in itself; but to change the color of someone’s world to an amazingly happy blue – in seconds – is nothing short of amazing, to say the least. Especially in this day and age. These men in blue have dared to take entertainment to a whole new level: From 2D, (Includig BMG's newly developed 2.5D), 3D to the GiPad (a take off the iPad for the stage), to texting, personalization on a whole new level, tubing, comedy, music, audience interaction and the world of rock and roll that speaks to everyone regardless of age – combining it all into an incredible evening of entertainment that I can only call astounding.
No matter what the color of people’s world prior to seeing the “Blue Man Group” show, folks leaving the theatre opening night seemed to be a whole lot brighter and “happier” than when they arrived. Even those hobbling through the crowd with paintings and ribbons hanging through their hair. With no intermission, it was indeed an entertaining show filled with music, tubes, drums, comedy and a type of entertainment that kept the audience’s attention from the moment the marquee began addressing special guests, those with headaches, indeed getting everyone's attention from curtain – another amazing feat since usually getting an audience prepared for curtain on time is also an amazing feat in the Bay Area.
As BMG sought out willing audience participants (literally climbing out into the audience, onto the backs of chairs to seek out willing participants) to assist in on-stage skits whether to paint a masterpiece, be a star on their own live cam – or partake in the eating of “Twinkies Light” with BMG (a very sweet woman was chosen for the task) – in fact, it reminded me of a comedy scene one might expect right out of an “I Love Lucy” episode. And no, it's not a set stage prior to the show.
If the color in your world has been anything but up beat and happy, then the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts is where you want to be to catch a wave of blue – from the “Blue Man Group” who have managed to not only change the way people look at entertainment and technology, but also life. And all I can say is, it’s about time someone broke the mold in this industry. It may be different, but anything that makes a change in the direction of positive is excellent in my view.
And who knew that such amazing entertainers in the upper left and right corners could play music that incredible along with BMG? Again, nothing short of amazing; absolutely incredibly talented people creating astonishing sounds. Double kudos to them, too.
Thus far, the “Blue Man Group” is the brightest color in the entertainment bunch, leaving audiences beaming – which is almost an understatement. (And not often seen in this neck of these woods.) So if you haven’t yet purchased tickets, what are you waiting for?
Drawbacks? None with “Blue Man Group," however, those who know my pet peeve with the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts theater know that it can be too small for the acoustics – from the beginning we didn't know if the theater could withstand "Blue Man Group's" incredible sound; however, it worked and held up. As for that lighting, I still don’t get that "blinded by the light" aspect when trying to review a show, however, I get that BMG was also filming live; and I get that in-your-face interaction; however, an opinion is just that and in no way reflects this amazing talent, crew or show, including the lighting who otherwise did an outstanding job.
While I work on that one, the gal I was with did see this show in Vegas (Venetian) and said it was much better in a smaller theatre setting – for various reasons: From the venue itself having more interaction time with BMG to the sound to the entire experience. So there you go. Definitely a must-see regardless of a tiny little pet peeve and an amazing talent that rocks the world of entertainment in a whole new light (no pun intended). Some of the best action we've seen in quite some time, and don't hesitate to review this one yourself; after all, it speaks for itself even though not a word is spoken by the men in blue.
Additional information:
The “Blue Man Group” is performing at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts through April 7 so get your tickets fast!
The San Jose Center for the Performing Arts is located at 255 Almaden Boulevard in San Jose. Season ticket information 1-866-395-2929; individual tickets: 1-408-792-4548; or visit Broadway San Jose's website. Tickets can be purchased online at Broadway San Jose; by phone at 1-408-792-4111; or in person at the SJTIX Box Office in Downtown San Jose.
The remaining Broadway San Jose 2012-2013 season performances include: “Billy Elliot, The Musical” May 7 through May 12, 2013; and “Green Day’s American Idiot” June 4 through June 9, 2013. P.K.’s tip: Parking is only $5 at the Adobe lot across the street. The “Blue Man Group” will be in San Jose April 2, 2013 through April 7, 2013 to mystify all ages (above 5), and culture; (approximately 1 hour, 45 minutes.).
The "Blue Man Group" created and written by Matt Goldman, Phil Stanton, Chris Wink; with associate director Marcus Miller, production designer Joel Moritz; video designer Caryl Glaab; costume designer Caryl Glaab & Chase Tyler; sound designer Matt Koenig; and music supervisor Todd Perlmutter. Again, kudos. To date, over 17 million people across the globe have seen a live Blue Man Group performance.
The "Blue Man Group" was created and written by Matt Goldman, Phil Stanton, Chris Wink; with associate director Marcus Miller, production designer Joel Moritz; video designer Caryl Glaab; costume designer Caryl Glaab & Chase Tyler; sound designer Matt Koenig; and music supervisor Todd Perlmutter. Again, kudos. To date, over 17 million people across the globe have seen a live Blue Man Group performance.
Casting call for "Blue Man Group" enthusiasts: By the way, if you think you have what it takes to be part of the “Blue Man Group” they are casting (below); the “Blue Man Group” is the headlining performance on the new Norwegian Epic by Norwegian Cruise Line—the Official Cruise Line of Blue Man Group, (which set sail in July 2010). Eight performances in the 685-seat Epic Theatre will be presented over the course of the seven days cruises.
A national open casting initiative is ongoing to find individuals with the unique qualities to be a Blue Man; men and women with height between 5'10" and 6'1" tall (athletic build), solid drumming skills, excellent acting skills, and a willingness to relocate. Currently, there are approximately 90 Blue Men in cities from the United States to Europe to Asia. For additional information visit www.BlueManGroup.com or call 1-800-BLUEMAN
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