An American in Paris Tour

I had high hopes for it. Gershwin music..beautiful sets and costumes....extremely talented cast. Sad to say I was bored. It just didn’t work for me. My least favorite offer of this season here in Detroit.  I guess they all can’t be winners.  

Caught the tour in Atlanta last fall after really loving Act I of the NY production. (Act II was another story topped off by an absolutely tedious 12 minute ballet that was indeed utterly boring.)

I'm happy to say that the joys of Act I came through loud and clear on the tour, despite a uniquely unsexy uncharismatic Jerry. The first half of Act I especially was chock full of the most delicious musical-theater making in a great while. The gorgeous Bway sets were smartly streamlined for the road without sacrificing any of the wit and wonder. And the score was still a thing of beauty, even with the reduced touring pit bands.

Leave at the intermission and you'd have a swell 90 minutes of happy show-going.

I saw the show several times on Broadway and a few times on tour (once in Boston and a few times in Philly) and I absolutely loved it. I grew up attending ballets with my aunt, so watching a musical put together my love of musical theater and ballet was right up my alley. I loved the original Broadway company (along with replacements) and the original company of the tour, so I can't comment on the current company. It's definitely not everyone's cup of tea and to each their own, but I loved it. 

Someone in a Tree2 said: "
Leave at the intermission and you'd have a swell 90 minutes of happy show-going."

 

That's what many have said - Act 2 was the killer for them, and never ended. That was the criticism by so many - it should have been a 90 minute show.

 

Thanks to all of you for sharing your thoughts!