REVIEW: 42nd Street – King’s Theatre Glasgow 26th June 2012
Winner of two Tony Awards – 42nd Street focuses on the efforts of famous director Julian Marsh to mount a successful stage production of a musical extravaganza during the Great Depression. It’s the timeless tale of small town girl Peggy Sawyer’s rise from the chorus line to Broadway star.
Dave Willetts plays notorious director Julian Marsh with Marti Webb as past her prime prima donna Dorothy Brock.
Willetts musical theatre credits include Jean Valjean in Les Miserables, The title role in The Phantom of the Opera, Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd, Sunset Boulevard, Aspects of Love and most recently playing Professor Callaghan in the UK tour of Legally Blonde the Musical.
Marti Webb is best known for her roles in Evita and Tell Me On a Sunday as well as Cats, Oklahoma and Blood Brothers.
42nd Street is full of classic hit songs including Lullaby of Broadway, We’re in the Money, Shuffle Off To Buffalo, Keep Young and Beautiful and I Only Have Eyes For You as well as the famous title number.
42nd Street is directed by the show’s author and Broadway Director Mark Bramble and features the stunning sets and costumes from the US production.
Despite being written in the 80’s this is as close as you’ll come to seeing those classic 1930s Busby Berkeley musicals recreated on stage. This was a feast for the ears and eyes. Hearing this huge cast tapping in unison is enough on its own to soften even the hardest heart.
The effort and enthusiasm from the cast was shining from every pore. James O’Connell as Billy Lawlor was a dream to watch – his dancing recalled the skill and physicality of Gene Kelly and Jessica Punch was sublimely skillful as the lightning footed Peggy Sawyer. Special mention must also go to Marti Webb whose beautiful diction and clear as a bell singing rang out sweetly through the auditorium.
It would be a great cynic indeed who failed to feel the joy of this. The glitz, glamour and innocence are enough to make you forget your troubles for a few hours and leave the theatre with a spring in your step.
If you need a pick me up – get a ticket for this quick!
Runs at The King’s Theatre Glasgow until Saturday tickets here.