The show is based on the acclaimed 1964 French film, which was also entirely sung. At the request of the filmmaker, however, the stage version is not a full production in the traditional sense. There is movement and acting and some dancing, but it's not as theatrical as a full-fledged musical. Oddly, leaving out the normal musical trappings makes this piece even more intriguing. This is a jazz opera, mostly, with some haunting melodies by Michel Legrand and engaging lyrics by Sheldon Harnick and Norman Gimbel.
Every part is well-sung by the very talented cast.
That coincidence causes a few audience chuckles in places where they should be melting at the fact that the couple's love is being torn asunder. Their love, and eventually their heartbreak, are palpable, especially in Young's passionate performance, as he takes center stage in the second act. This play has not been performed professionally for 20 years, and it's not likely to come back again soon. See this one while you have the chance. I interviewed her over the phone prior to this show's opening, and she was perfectly cordial and kind, despite the fact that I had no idea what to ask her about and had only slept about four hours before calling her at 9 a.m.