Preview: 42nd Street
42nd Street is a well-loved musical that first premiered in 1980. Based on a 1932 novel and 1933 Hollywood film, this is a show that ‘has legs’ in more ways than one: longevity, and plenty of toe-tapping numbers. The plot follows a simple ‘chorus girl gets the chance to take the leading role’ storyline, with plenty of opportunities for loves lost and found. And the musical has much-loved numbers that include the ‘Lullaby of Broadway,’ ‘The Gold Diggers' Song (We're in the Money),’ and the fabulous ‘42nd Street (reprise)’ finale.
42nd Street is a great choice for the 2023 Savoyards program, as was ably demonstrated at the Group Booking Preview held in early May. Rob Emblen (Choreographer), Lyn Pelgrave (Director), and Benjamin Tubb-Hearne (Musical Director) have already been working very hard with the large chorus: the big numbers looked effortless, the vocals were harmonious, and the wide smiles were infectious.
Leads include Carolyn Latter, in a poignant portrayal of the ‘prima donna’ Dorothy Brock and Kirsten Brown, who is equally well-cast as the fresh-faced Peggy Sawyer. In the short sneak preview, audience members had warm applause for Carolyn Latter’s number, and it was difficult to take our eyes off the vivacious Kirsten Brown.
It looks as if this will be another Savoyards sell-out show. The countdown is now on. Tickets go on sale on 16 May, for the short 24 June-8 July run (presented by Savoyards at the Iona Performing Arts Centre, Lindum).
Note: The Savoyards Preview was held on 3 May (all images credit: Savoyards).