Isherwood calls them out on the producing dynamics, but loves the "play" and its cast.
"The Spectacle has, indeed, an emotional attraction of its own, but, of all the parts, it is the least artistic, and connected least with the art of poetry. For the power of Tragedy, we may be sure, is felt even apart from representation and actors. Besides, the production of spectacular effects depends more on the art of the stage machinist than on that of the poet."
--Aristotle
I attended the show last night and was enraptured in the whole thing.
I did the rush and arrived around 6:20 PM and was the second in line. I would say about 15 people showed up after me and I believed they all got seats. I was located in the front left box and it provided me with an amazing view (as I am sure any seat would for this production). While the orchestra did look full, I am saddened to say that the mezzanine had no more than 30 people. I was so upset to see this and I did notice some people from the boxes (rush most likely) did move to the front of the rear mezz with the ushers approval.
On to the show... I didn't know much about the show before last week. But, I did my research and knew I wanted to see this. I loved it! At first it took me a while to get into. I knew the concept, but they were moving very fast. After 10 minutes the show flowed beautifully and you could hear a pin drop (aside from those damn firetrucks!). Ms. Farrow is giving an amazing performance and so is Mr. Dennehy. The last 15 minutes had me on the verge of tears. I think Ms. Farrow is certainly worthy of a Tony too.
Other than a few cellphones ringing and notifying people they received a text I enjoyed the show's simplicity. The true star is the text, which is beautifully written by Mr. Gurney. I don't know if I will return (I'd love to, but you never know). But, I am so glad I got to experience this show.