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America's Beloved Family: The Simpsons Take The Hollywood Bowl

Francesca Calvo |
September 13, 2014 | 6:34 p.m. PDT

Contributor

Photo by Michelle Jimenez.
Photo by Michelle Jimenez.
The sun finally sets behind the Hollywood Hills as the Los Angeles Phil Harmonic Orchestra takes the stage. Families, friends, and couples enjoy cheese and wine in anticipation for the show to start. But this is no ordinary night at the Hollywood Bowl.

There are life-size pink sprinkle donuts floating overhead, ushers wearing red wigs, giant character cut-outs in the trees, and Duff Beer being sold at every refreshment stand. And this is only the beginning of the “Fireworks Finale: The Simpsons Take the Bowl” at the Hollywood Bowl. 

Matt Groening and his fellow collaborators bring America’s beloved middle-class family, the Simpsons, to the Hollywood Bowl. Groening and his cohorts have successfully created a theatrical experience by sharing the world behind 25 seasons of witty and satirical commentary on American society. The human voices of numerous characters come to life on stage as actors Hank Azaria, Nancy Cartwright, and Yeardley Smith co-host the show. Azaria, in particular, handles the change of production with grace and humor. 

SEE ALSO: The Beatles 50th Anniversary At The Hollywood Bowl: Review 

The audience is captured immediately by the personalized Simpsons animation. The production brilliantly satirizes the everyday experience and struggle of patrons at the Hollywood Bowl. It is clear that there is passion and craft behind one of television's longest-running sitcoms. 'The Simpsons Take the Bowl' shows their commitment to creativity, fun, and story. With many surprises leading up to the show's spectacular fireworks finale, there is not one dull moment. 

Photo by Francesca Calvo.
Photo by Francesca Calvo.
The L.A. Phil Orchestra, conducted by the beloved Thomas Wilkins, brings Simpson tunes to life on stage. Every musician is part of the fun; some are wearing Marge wigs and others interact directly with the actors. On top of that, the Gay Men’s Choir joins the stage to perform some of the greatest hits from both the TV show and the movie. 

The production does not fall short in its design elements either. Vibrant costumes and minimalistic sets bring a sense of fun and community to the stage. Additionally, the show exploits a very colorful lighting palette, and it does not stop there. Projections and lighting move throughout the Bowl (and through the audience), creating a truly immersive theater experience. 

SEE ALSO: 10 Non-Touristy Things To Do In Los Angeles

The combination of exceptional visuals, music, and dance blend into a cohesive spectacle. It resembles early theater, when people came together to tell stories. There is a constant giving between both the audience and performers that is thrilling and beautiful to watch. "The Simpsons Takes the Bowl: Fireworks Finale" is the perfect show for all ages to experience the magic of the Hollywood Bowl, and America's most successful cartoon family. 

Reach Contributor Francesca Calvo here

“Fireworks Finale: The Simpsons Take the Bowl” is playing through September 14th at the Hollywood Bowl (2301 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles) For more information visit www.HollywoodBowl.com.



 

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