What people are saying about Beth’s work!
The Sound of Music at The Muny Reviews:
“Beth Crandall’s captivating choreography fills The Muny stage with elegant moves aplenty” -Mark Bretz Ladue News
“The cast of children is wonderful in the show, really pushing the envelope of what these already talented characters are able to do. Beth Crandall’s choreography feels familiar, yet fresh – polishing up already shiny numbers like “Do-Re-Me,” “Sixteen Going On Seventeen,” and “So Long, Farewell.” The way all of these talented young actors come together and work in unison is impressive, and an absolute delight. It’s hard not to grin ear-to-ear when they are performing these numbers.”
-Kevin Brackett ReviewSTL.com
“There are subtle nuances in this production that make it feel fresh. When Maria teaches the children to sing, “Do Re Mi,” they not only use their voices, but they also express the lyrics in sign language. In “The Lonely Goatherd,” little Gretl (played by Kate Scarlett Kappel) adds new theatrics to her role in that song.
Director Matt Kunkel has done just that by teaming up with Music Director Ben Whiteley and Choreographer Beth Crandall to make this stage version of The Sound of Music almost as good as the movie.”
-Pat Lindsey FloValleyNews.com
“The Von Trapp children are individually and collectively delightful, successfully stealing hearts and scenes while adding humor and honesty at every turn. Their choreography is accomplished and engaging, and their expressions telling and authentic.
As to be expected, director Matt Kunkel, music director Ben Whiteley, choreographer Beth Crandall and the company hit every note just right. Attention to detail and a reverence to the original production ensure the family friendly musical remains a favorite of the American canon for generations to come.”
-Tina Farmer KDHX
“As usual, the von Trapp children steal the show. You expect the actors to be endearing, but these kids are not only supremely talented but project professionalism on stage. And they harmonize beautifully – especially their fun “The Lonely Goatherd” number during a frightening thunderstorm and the always special “So Long, Farewell.” Beth Crandall choreographed the sophisticated party dances and the peppy kids’ numbers.”
-Lynn Venhaus PopLifeSTL
“Elizabeth Teeter as Liesl (the eldest daughter) and Andrew Alstat as Rolf capture the exuberance of young love with splendid singing and dancing in “Sixteen Going on Seventeen.” Ben Whiteley is the music director, Beth Crandall, the choreographer.”
-Gerry Kowarsky HECMedia.org
“This is a production that gets absolutely everything right. Like brown paper packages tied up with string this Muny production of The Sound of Music is one of my favorite things.”
-James Linhorst BroadwayWorld.com
Matilda at The Muny Reviews:
“It is almost impossible to tell that The Muny works on such a short timeline to produce a show of this magnitude. Beth Crandall’s choreography is fresh and fun, utilizing and filling the huge Muny stage with exciting action.”
- Tanya Seale, BroadwayWorld
“The choreography by Beth Crandall dazzles when performed by the Muny Kids and Teens… there is a showstopping song at the end of the show with all the kids that's sure to put a smile on your face.”
- Kevin Brackett, ReviewsSTL
“This magical and enchanting production brings The Muny’s 101st season to a highly satisfying and immensely entertaining conclusion. Beth Crandall’s inspired choreography glistens especially well in classroom numbers, which are performed with delightful verve.”
- Mark Bretz, LadueNews.com
“…it retains much of the tone and general movement style, reflected in John Tartaglia’s direction and Beth Crandall’s superb choreography. The dancing is energetic and precise, as is the staging, in keeping with the style of the show, and the result is energetic, engaging, and supremely entertaining. It’s a wonderful way to conclude the excellent, newly energized 101st season at the Muny.”
- Michelle Kenyon, snoopstheaterthoughts.com
“The chorus is amazing, a carefully choreographed (by Beth Crandall) immense mob, illustrating the fantasies the show offers. The size of the Muny stage and the number and talents of the young ones is a combination that could probably only be done here. Revel in it.”
- Joe and Ann Pollack, stlouiseats.typepad.com