The new “Cyrano” movie is an eyeful; but for the ear, more like half-full. But you always take your chances with a musical adaptation of the 1897 Edmond Rostand play. And there have been plenty.
In Rostand’s verse extravaganza, “Cyrano de Bergerac,” the generously nosed poet warrior of the title embarks on an anguished ghostwriting project to help out his fellow soldier, Christian, at the behest of Roxanne, who has fallen in love with Christian at first sight. Cyrano has loved Roxanne privately since they were childhood friends. With his own heart gently weeping, Cyrano composes love letters on behalf of Christian to Roxanne, though, of course, the ruse cannot remain a secret forever.
The source material’s devotion to yearning hearts, nobility, honor and the magic potion of love language makes it irresistible to theatrical practitioners worldwide. All that verse? It’s nearly a musical! Why not just take the leap and let these people sing? It sounds inevitable.
