All Bark, No Bite: Redwood
Briefly

Redwood, co-created by Idina Menzel and director Tina Landau, is a new musical that tackles themes of trauma and grief. The story follows a successful New York gallery owner mourning her 23-year-old son as the first anniversary of his death approaches. In her despair, she travels to Northern California, seeking solace amongst the trees. The protagonist's interactions with ecological researchers and nature spark a transformative journey, prompting reflections on life, death, and healing. However, critics express concern over the musical's tendency toward sentimentality, questioning whether it can achieve lasting emotional resonance.
The plot of Redwood explores the journey of a gallery owner grappling with grief, urging us to contemplate the fragility of life and healing through powerful imagery.
While the musical’s emotional depth aims for catharsis, critics note that its reliance on sentimental tropes may lead to a lack of lasting impact.
The protagonist's journey into the canopy reveals both a personal quest for healing and a deeper connection with nature, symbolizing resilience amidst tragedy.
The collaboration between Menzel and Landau provides hope that music will elevate the narrative, though the balance between sentimentality and substance remains a contentious point.
Read at Vulture
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