The razzle dazzle of thirties Broadway has taken over the stage at Milton Keynes Theatre with a brand new touring production of the iconic musical 42nd Street, writes Chris Gregg.
With a star studded cast including Eastenders' Samantha Womack as established Hollywood star Dorothy Brock, Emmerdale and Robin of Sherwood star Michael Praed as theatre boss Julian Marsh, Steps' Faye Tozer as Maggie Jones and National Treasure and Family Fortunes host Les Dennis as Bert Barry. Sadly Les was missing from the cast on press night but his role was competently covered by Kevin Brewis.
It's a show that recreates the heyday of Broadway 'musical comedy' with dazzling costumes, eye watering high speed tap dancing routines and plenty of well known songs including the title number, “We’re In The Money”, “Lullaby of Broadway”, “Shuffle Off To Buffalo” and “I Only Have Eyes For You”.
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Fresh off the bus from small-town America, "young and beautiful" Peggy Sawyer arrives in New York City dreaming of her name in lights. She quickly catches the eye of a big-time director and lands a spot in the chorus line of Broadway’s newest show, Pretty Lady…and when she appears to give the leading lady Dorothy Brock a broken ankle by tripping her up on stage, she finally gets her shot at stardom. Along the way there is a confusing array of flirting between the many similar looking male performers and Peggy and Dorothy, but everything is neatly tied up by the end of the show.
As the show switches between the backstage action and the actual Pretty Lady show, the cast have the chance to really shine with full on dance routines and the most extravagent costumes. It's then that Nicole-Lily Baisden absolutely steals the show with her dazzling performance as Peggy Sawyer and is every bit the star of the show with incredible tap skills, a soulful singing voice and great acting. There's also an impressive performance from Samantha Womack as Dorothy Brock and some powerful singing from Michael Praed. The chorus line should also get a mention for their flawless and skillful dance performances.
42nd Street is a classic story about the entertainment industry, featuring impressive tap dancing, backstage drama, romance, and humor. It's a fun and entertaining tribute to musicals and Broadway, which is sure to boost anyone's mood.
42nd Street continues until Saturday.
