Critical Reception
According to Otis L. Guernsey, "Celebration's lyrics are strongly poetic. It suffers its moments of cynicism and despair, even of ugliness, but its theme of regeneration always finds the upbeat. Vernon Lusby's choreography illustrated each sardonic turn of the fable, and the design was a visual marvel of symbolic scenery, costumes and gargoyle masks by Ed Wittstein. ... Celebration strugled forward in an effort to find its audience. It was urged on by the enthusiasm of a few major critics and joyful members of the public who half-filled its auditorium."
Thomas Hischak wrote that it was "an allegorical piece" "performed as an ancient ritual." He further noted that "The score was eerie yet accesible. ... The critics were somewhat fascinated and complimentary. ... Many felt Celebration belonged Off Broadway."
Read more about this topic: Celebration (musical)
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