David Byrne’s American Utopia is another celebratory theater event unusual for Broadway. The former front man for the Talking Heads and a genius-level solo artist, Byrne presents an intoxicating hybrid of rock concert, dance program, and howlingly fun party. Audience members at the performance attended had no hesitation to stand and dance in the aisles to “The Road to Nowhere,” “Once in a Lifetime,” and the ultimate shake-your-booty inducer “Burning Down the House.”
Byrne, in remarkable shape and voice at 67, is accompanied by a stageful of international instrumentalists, mostly percussionists, and two charismatic backup singers (Daniel Freedman and Tenda Yi Kuumba), creating finger-popping, infectious music. All are barefoot and dressed in identical grey suits. Choreographer Annie-B Parson’s stylized movement and patterns of staging lend variety and eccentricity to each number.
Alex Timbers who collaborated with Byrne on the immersive musical Here Lies Love is listed as Production Consultant, so it’s difficult to judge where his contribution begins and Parson’s ends. The storyless concert is stitched together by Byrne’s commentary and his desire for connection between the ordinary world and the vibrant spirit which binds us together. It’s a fun evening, even if you’re not a Byrne-head.
