I watched a performance of the new musical Amélie at the Berkeley Rep theater last night – and loved it. I like to ask myself if I enjoyed a work of art, if it made me feel something, and if it made me think. 

Amélie gets a “yes” to all three questions – great singing and a good, playful sense of humor imported from the movie are at least two parts of the play that I enjoyed. A stand-out Elton John scene and song remains my favorite part. I felt the emotional tugs of alternating sadness and joy that were a huge part of the movie. I certainly thought the themes of isolated, fragile people who have to risk finding joy gave me more than enough food for thought.

I hear it should make it to Broadway next year – something Broadway should look forward to!