Known for its astounding choreography and extraordinary levels of theatricality, 42nd Street brings the glitz and glamour of old school Broadway to the West End in force.
Walking into the beautiful Theatre Royal Drury Lane is like stepping back into an era bursting with beauty and elegance. The decadent theatre is a highly majestic home for the golden production that exudes classic Broadway. From the very iconic opening of tap shoes tapping away as the curtain slowly rises, from then onwards you realise it is a show that you’ll never forget.
When thriving theatre producer Julian Marsh is putting on his next big hit musical Pretty Lady right in the midst of the Great Depression, he casts Broadway star Dorothy Brock as the leading lady, as she is guaranteed to bring in the big bucks. Despite her dramatic reputation and arrogant attitude, the company pander to her every need. Until of course, she falls injured and is forced to pull out of the show, which puts rising star Peggy Sawyer in the spotlight.
Tom Lister’s interpretation of Julian Marsh is exemplary as he masters the balance between being strict and empathetic. Not to mention his vocals in Lullaby Of Broadway which is naturally superb. Bringing an abundance of humour to the piece is Jasna Ivir as composer Maggie Jones, her relationships on stage are both witty and warm, and her powerful voice is utterly delightful.
Sheena Easton does a tremendous job at playing diva that is Dorothy Brock. As she sneers and sticks her nose up at her cast mates, she completely encapsulates the role and creates a character that the audience really struggle to like. Which contrasts brilliantly with Clare Halse as Peggy Sawyer, who is an astonishing performer. With an effortless ability to sing, act and dance with such high quality, it’s an absolute honour to witness her command the audience.
Randy Skinner’s innovative choreography is on another level to anything I’ve witnessed on stage before. It’s clever, fast and entirely illuminates the stage. The dancers move rapidly with personality and precision, showcasing how tightly they move as an ensemble. This is complimented exceptionally by Roger Kirk’s unbelievable costumes. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, a multitude of dancers come out head to toe in coloured sequins that form a vibrant rainbow.
42nd Street is everything that musical theatre is all about, and the extravaganza of it all will completely blow your mind. With an unbelievable 48 cast members and 432 costumes, it is a production that gives you absolutely everything, and an experience you’re never likely to forget.
GO and meet those dancing feet in a theatrical spectacular that is an excellently overwhelming feast for the eyes.
★★★★★
2 comments
Hello Amy. Can I ask what night you watched 42nd Street as I was watching on the 9th and saw a few understudies in principal roles. I wasn’t disappointed at all though. Fabulous performances.
Hi Daryl,
I actually saw the performance on the 2nd of August (matinee), the date above is just the date the review was posted. Glad you enjoyed the show!