Can't believe I'm going to say this, but I saw it and liked it. Maybe because I was first row center and I was mesmerized by the movement and lights?
Not going to lie, the music was probably the most frustrating. It takes until almost the end of Act One to get used to the Frank Sinatra on tape with the live band, and when the live female singer pops in a couple of times, it does nothing but take you out of the moment. Also, while the lighting was effective, the set looked pretty cheap and cheesy.
That said, I was blown away by the cast. Across the board stellar dancers, most notable John Selya and Holly Farmer. In an ideal world the fiery Karine Plantadit will be recognized come Tony time as she was a powerhouse; and Charlie Neshyba-Hodges, short and stocky but the most graceful, agile performer you'll ever see, will be remembered as well. His powerful legs are nicely on display in Act Two, when for some reason all the guys tear their shirts and he removes his pants. Awkward, but a nice added element.
As to the dancing? I'm not a huge Twyla fan, but for most of the show, it's not as "Tharpie" as you might expect. It's surprisingly accessible and romantic. In Act Two, the Tharpiness takes more prominence, and in those moments, you really come out of the "storyline" of the show.
But in all, not an amazing work, but enjoyable and sweet.
"Hey little girls, look at all the men in shiny shirts and no wives!" - Jackie Hoffman, Xanadu, 19 Feb 2008