Now more than ever, there is something for everyone at the theatre, from modern Jukebox musicals to radical re-stagings of much-loved shows. In this sea of fresh ideas, it is refreshing to still have room for classics like 42nd Street, continuing to thrill audiences 44 years after its original Tony Award winning Broadway run! You could be forgiven for thinking 42nd Street has been gracing the stage for even longer, with the book on which it’s based being released way back in 1932. However, this toe-tapping extravaganza perfectly captures classic Broadway glamour.
We find ourselves back in the 1930’s in rehearsals for ‘Pretty Lady’, a new musical. Once a huge star, Dorothy Brock (Samantha Womack) leads ‘Pretty Lady’ despite arguably being past her prime. However, when she injures herself on stage, a new leading lady is needed for the show to continue.
The set is simple, but is utilised wonderfully throughout the 2.5 hour show. The narrative itself is moved along well by Michael Praed as director Julian Marsh. This often breaks the fourth wall, but is careful to never feel jarring or tacky. This fourth wall breaking closes the end of act one wonderfully, in one of the most innovative ways I have ever seen.
Samantha Womack is sensational as Dorothy, delivering powerful vocals with such perfectly controlled vibrato that we should be calling her Samantha WOAH-mack! Womack stole the show in each and every scene that she was in, she was an absolute joy to watch. When Dorothy can no longer perform, Peggy Sawyer is given the chance of a life time to lead the show. Nicole-Lily Baisden plays Sawyer with an eager innocence and was utterly captivating. Her tap dancing in particular was absolutely breathtaking, as it was in the acclaimed production of Anything Goes last year. If Baisden is in any sort of dance inspired musical, my advice is to get yourself a ticket for a guaranteed joyous night at the theatre.
Unsurprisingly, the most memorable moments came from the big ensemble tap numbers, which were truly world class. Bill Deamer’s choreography captures the era perfectly, transporting the audience back to the theatre scene in the 1930’s America. It was exhausting just watching, with the cast perfectly synchronised with each and every tap, dance and kick. This has to be one of the most hard-working casts out there!
42nd Street is not to be missed and is easily one of the best touring productions of 2023, on at Manchester Opera House until Saturday 21 October 2023. See below for booking information.
Photo Credit: Johan Persson and Michelle George
Note: My ticket was gifted. Irrespective of whether a show is gifted or bought, I always ensure that my reviews are fair and based on my honest opinion alone.