Voice over review on top. Print review on the bottom.
There is a stunning musical at The American Airlines Theatre that is such perfection; I am hoping it will run forever. The stellar cast, which includes the charismatic, adorable, sexy and talented Chenoweth exceeds all expectations. She looks stunning, sounds like an opera star, has the vocal chops that defies gravity but also she is over the top funny. Her talent is so tall it doubles her tiny four foot 11-inch frame. She is a triple threat and in this production it’s as if the role was written for her.
As the musical opens, we have Peter Gallagher, a down on his luck director who flashes back to when he discovered Mildred Plotka changed to Lily Garland. Gallagher discovers her and turns her into a star. They had a bad relationship, and she leaves him. On a train going from Chicago to New York on the ride, he has to find a backer, sign the diva played by the magnificent Chenoweth. All hell breaks loose, and the show pretty much is a way for Chenoweth to show her glitter and star power.
The costumes by William Ivey Long are stunning especially a gorgeous glittery gold gown that makes Chenoweth look like a movie and theater diva. Her stunning wigs also compliment her clothing. The cute tap dancers also shine throughout many numbers through the show and another standout is Mary Louise Wilson as Letitia Primrose. Her performance was over the top.
Warren Carlyle’s tap is really special, and he deserves a nomination for the amazing dance throughout the show, though I wish there were more of it, and I was having so much fun I did not want the evening to end. Betty Comden and Adolph Green’s glorious lyrics and Cy Colman’s music were also pristine. The show is perfection, and I hope it will extend for a 20-year run as it is that good! See it. It will make you realize what a great show is. Brava to all involved, especially Kristin Chenoweth.
Sadly this show closed. Hoping a Broadway Producer will give it a new home.
Corine Cohen for https://broadwayshowbiz.com
