Theatre Review: Crazy for You - Edinburgh Playhouse ✭✭✭✭
Review by Anne Mackie
It’s ‘got rhythm, it’s got music…who could ask for anything
more?’
No, literally…who COULD ask for anything more when this
charming production evokes just the right amount of ‘old school’ pizzazz as it
showcases the classic melodies of George and Ira Gershwin in a refreshed yet
innovative touring adaption.
At first glance, Crazy for You presents itself as the
epitome of Golden Age of Musical Theatre. However, theoretically this is a
musical from the 1990s and arguably the earliest of ‘jukebox’ productions,
encompassing standalone numbers from over 80 years ago.
The 2018 UK Tour delivers a fun, light-hearted revival,
presented superbly by an energetic cast of actor-musicians – a concept which
both works and flops within the context of this interpretation. Crazy for You
is a production that is renowned for being incredibly choreographic, and whilst
it is impressive to watch a company of quadruple threats strut their stuff, in
this instance the use of instruments proves detrimental to the dancing. For
example, numbers such as Slap that Bass and I Got Rhythm lacked the true
showbiz glitz we have come to expect of a production of this calibre.
Admittedly, the actor-muso element works well in more static productions such
as Calamity Jane or Oliver, however in this Broadway classic…”toss the clarinet
and whip out your tap shoes!”
As far as narratives go, Crazy for You follows Bobby Child,
a young man wanting to dance rather than work for the family bank. He is
instructed to go to Deadrock, Nevada to foreclose a rundown theatre and
reluctantly heads off, only to fall in love with Polly Baker – a young,
headstrong lady who wants to save the long-held family theatre. Bobby is
inspired to help Polly and sets out to put on a show disguised as the renowned
theatre practitioner, Bela Zangler. It’s clear to see, Crazy for You is famed for the music…not
its plot line!
Headliner Tom Chambers (of Strictly fame) gives a
well-rounded performance as the haplessly cheerful Bobby Child. Despite a
couple of strained vocals, Chambers is a dexterous dancer who truly commits to
his physically demanding portrayal, giving an infectious performance that
highlights exactly why he was crowned the winner of Strictly Come Dancing in
2008.
The true star of the show, however, is Chambers' right-hand
woman - the delightful Charlotte Wakefield in the role of Polly Baker.
Wakefield’s endearing and spunky interpretation of the optimistic Polly Baker
is an utter joy to watch, supporting a magnificent vocal that fortunately
balances out Chamber’s musical shortcomings. Her renditions of the classic Someone
to Watch Over Me and But Not For Me being two of the show’s highlights.
Kudos must also go to Claire Sweeney as the sassy yet
seductive Irene Roth, Stacey Ghent and Kieran Kuypersas the ‘spiffing’ comedic
duo Patricia and Eugene Fodorand Neil Ditt as the real Bela Zangler. Their
individual performances were well thought out, committed and dynamic,
supporting the narrative superbly.
Director Paul Hart, Musical Supervisor and Arranger
Catherine Jayes and Choreographer Nathan M Wright must be commended for their
collaborative efforts in presenting this Broadway classic with a true
contemporary edge. Although the actor-muso element let the overall production
value down on occasion; the way in which the ensemble immersed themselves into
the piece was effortless and commendable. Whether a poised dancing foot, a
cello in hand or belting a harmony line, the 2018 revival cast gracefully give
an otherwise eccentric narrative new energy and verve.
Overall, Crazy for You is a stellar production that
certainly won’t leave you ‘bidin’ your time’ – with feel good showstoppers,
light hearted characterisations and the classic ‘boy gets girl’ plot, this is a
much loved ‘old school’ favourite that will have you tapping in the aisles and
singing all the way home.
So, ‘grab a ticket if you can get it, and you can get it if
you try!’
Crazy for You is at the Edinburgh Playhouse until Saturday 7th April. For tickets visit the Edinburgh Playhouse.
Crazy for You is at the Edinburgh Playhouse until Saturday 7th April. For tickets visit the Edinburgh Playhouse.