Crazy for You

I have not seen this show in a long time and I had forgotten that this was where those marvellous Gershwin numbers such as ‘Embraceable You’ and’ I Got Rhythm’ – so finely rendered here - came from. This was a spectacular show in terms of the visual impact of the scenery and the vitality and colour of the movement. The choreography was slick, fast moving and beautifully timed and tackled especially by The Follies in equally spectacular Tiller Girl-like outfits including feathers. Not to be outdone, lead Ian Davidson, well suited to the role as stage struck Bobby Childs, tap danced and sang his way through, initially pulled between two strong women, his mother and fiancée before finding love far away from New York in a struggling theatre in Nebraska. Comedy and mix ups follow as he impersonates too well the theatre director Bela Zangler played by a buoyant Gordon Gallacher. Leading lady Kisrty Meikle did not put a foot wrong in the role of Polly who falls in love with this impersonation, making her mark in her well sung solos and duets. Rebecca Anderson gave a powerful aura to the role of fiancée Irene as did Karen Ross in the role of managing mother Lottie. Equally well characterised were Colin Fawkes as rival Lank, Chris Brooks as  father Everett, Lisa Goldie as loyal Tess and Alexandra Kerr as ditsy Patsy. Then bursting on to the stage were the tourists Fodors, namely Kenny Walker and Katie Gardiner with their well timed comedic lines. Add in The New York and Nevada Ensemble and The Cowpokes and Hillbillies with their contrasting choreography and the officials provided a show where everyone seamlessly contributed to the whole. We exited the theatre once again entranced by Gershwin’s music and having been hugely entertained. Well done to all.

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