Moses

The story of Moses is told in this filmed musical production mounted by Sight & Sound Theatres, which offers family-friendly Bible-inspired offerings at venues in Lancaster, PA, and Branson, MO. On the plus side, Moses is one of the most extravagant productions in contemporary regional theater, featuring a huge cast (including horses, camels, and assorted barnyard animals) on a massive stage where 60 sets recreate the drama of Ancient Egypt. Highly imaginative special effects bring the miracles of the Book of Exodus to life (the parting of the Red Sea is especially stunning) as Moses leads the chosen people to the promised land. But ultimately this is more a triumph of style over substance. Composer Don Harper’s score strives for a Broadway sound, but the music is banal and underwhelming, while the ensemble acting comes across like an overly ambitious community theater group who have taken on far more than they can handle. Presented in 5.1 surround sound, extras include behind-the-scenes featurettes. Optional. (P. Hall)