Friday, December 18, 2009

Stage Door: 42 Street (1 review)

Broward Stage Door opened its production of 42nd Street on December 11, 2009.
The story of hard work, being in the right place at the right time, talent and love, 42nd Street is a celebration of Broadway and the people involved in shows. It focuses on aspiring chorus girl Peggy Sawyer, and takes us along her journey. Musical hits include You're Getting to Be a Habit with Me, Dames, I Know Now, We're In the Money, Lullaby of Broadway, Shuffle Off to Buffalo and Forty-Second Street.
Dave Campbell directs a cast that includes Erin Dowling, Shaun Patrick Moe, Jim Middleton, Blair Alexis Brown, Erin Romero, and Jack Livesay.

Mario Betto reviewed for Examiner. com:
Erin Dowling and Shaun Patrick Moe make a handsome pair as leads Peggy Sawyer and Billy Lawlor. Triple-threat Dowling sparkles in the role of the wide-eyed chorus girl from Allentown seeking stardom in New York City. Tenor Shaun Patrick Moe delivers strong vocals throughout the show.
Jim Middleton, who plays the notorious director Julian Marsh, brilliantly showcases "Lullaby of Broadway" with his rich and powerful voice.
Blair Alexis Brown, who plays Dorothy Brock, a past her prime prima donna, shares a poignant duet with Peggy, the show's heroine in the number "About A Quarter To Nine". Erin Romero in the role of writer Maggie Jones and Jack Livesey as Texan sugar daddy Abner Dillon add sprinkles of comedy to this sweet show.
Although I prefer a live orchestra, David Cohen's music tracks were quite good and complemented the impeccable sound design of Martin Mets.
Dave Campbell, the show's director and co-choreographer (along with choreographer Kevin Black) creates a fluid and cohesive production true to the show's script
Is the dancing spot on? Not always. Are there audible flat and off key notes throughout the production? Yes. Overall, the audience forgives these momentary distractions which are overpowered by a solid and heartfelt performance.
42nd Street plays at the Broward Stage Door Theatre through January 24, 2010.

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