Music duo reunited in stage story
UK musical theatre talent Luke Hogan depicts Garfunkel alongside US performer Israel Bloodgood as Paul Simon in this blend of theatre, concert and biography, presenting the tale of how two young boys from Queens, New York become one of the world's most successful music duos.
The production follows the highs and lows, from humble beginnings to the songs and stories that shaped them, the dramatic split, solo careers and epic 1981 Central Park reunion concert.
'Art's voice is iconic,' Hogan says.
'His mannerisms are so unique; it's been a joy to embody them. Luke Hogan as Art Garfunkel and Israel Bloodgood as Paul Simon in The Simon and Garfunkel Story. Credit: Carsten Windhorst
'The music they made is some of the best we've ever heard. Once we found that sound, we were so excited to share it. It's what makes this show feel so alive.'
Narration and huge projected images of 1960s photographs and film footage help to set the scene as the audience is transported to a time of poetic lyrics, haunting harmonies and cultural revolution.
Hogan and Bloodgood perform the catalogue of hits accompanied by a full band — comprising Nick Martin on bass, Harrison White on keyboards/guitar and Harry Denton on drums — including Mrs Robinson, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Homeward Bound, Scarborough Fair, The Boxer and The Sound Of Silence. The Simon and Garfunkel Story is returning to Australia. Credit: Carsten Windhorst
'It (the show) brings people back to their youth or reminds them of loved ones who adored this music,' Hogan says.
'The projections give the audience a clearer understanding of the story. They remind us of the era's significance.'
Bloodgood adds: 'It's like being invited into the world behind the songs, what inspired them, what they meant.'
The Simon and Garfunkel Story first toured Australia in 2016 and returns with Hogan and Bloodgood following their sell-out performance earlier this year at The London Palladium.
It is all about audience connection for this pair, who are reminded how deeply this music resonates whenever seeing people mouth the lyrics, smile or even tear up.
'I want them to be moved, to reflect, maybe even be challenged, and hopefully, we make a few new Simon and Garfunkel fans along the way,' Bloodgood says. Luke Hogan performs as Art Garfunkel and Israel Bloodgood as Paul Simon. Credit: Carsten Windhorst
'The lyrics, the melodies; they're timeless. Every time I perform a song like America or Old Friends, I discover something new.
'Singing Kathy's Song or Homeward Bound, I think of my wife and kids. Those songs are about longing. Paul Simon understood that.'
The Simon and Garfunkel Story is at His Majesty's Theatre, August 15 and 16 and Mandurah Performing Arts Centre, August 17.
Tickets at artsculturetrust.wa.gov.au (Perth) and manpac.com.au (Mandurah).
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