'Memphis'- 1.16.10

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of grabbing two last minute tickets to the evening performance of 'Memphis' for my sister and I; when the show was in previews and was getting early publicity I was busy being in a production of my own so I really missed everything regarding this show so when people in my own town told me to see it my first initial reaction was, "what show?" so I then came to this bored to read a myriad of reviews.
I had heard reviews spanning from raves to utter disgust regarding the show so I was very interested on how I would enjoy it.

I loved it, as did my sister who very rarely sees shows.

Throughout the show I could not stop thinking about 'Hairspray'; weather it was the themes, or the songs, or the performances, I don't know, but I came out thinking... "well, this is the new Hairspray." Regardless, I really enjoyed my self.

I sat in Row A, side mezzanine, seats 22-24, the seats were pretty good with the exception of missing less than a foot of the side of the stage.

The show started out extremely loud, to the point where the words were inaudible as they got lost in the band.

There were no understudies...

Chad Kimbell as Huey... still not sure if it was him or the character but I wasn't impressed, he was the only real weak link I found in the show. Now, it may not be him at all but I would have to see someone else in the role before I can fairly draw an opinion.

Montego Glover as Felicia... loved her! She was absolutely fantastic, her voice, acting, costumes... everything about her performance was wonderful!

Derrick Baskin did everything he could with the role of Gator, the role doesn't offer that much room for personalization but he made the best of it.

J. Bernard Calloway was excellent as Delray, he played the role perfectly and had a nice voice.

James Monroe Iglehart was hilarious as Bobby, another one with a great voice and great acting.

Michael McGarth as Mr. Simmons was Mr. Simmons he was the typical racist 1950s southerner and played his role really well.

Cass Morgan was hilarious as Mamma! She was great all around!

The whole ensemble was great, too! Such impressive dancing!

Now, the show, like all shows had flaws. Act 1 felt a little long to me and certain parts of the story felt underdeveloped.

But overall, an excellent night at the theatre! I recommend it, I have a feeling it's gonna be the next big thing in the world of theatre.

4.5 out of 5 stars!

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- spoiler (sort of) -

And, I was blown away by Chad Kimball's performance. In fact, having not read this board before seeing the show, I was very surprised to read that people weren't appreciating his Huey. I thought he owned the role. I was captivated by his interpretation of a floundering young man, lacking education, who is driven by his passion for "race" music and the courage of his conviction. Huey is a very complex character in that he understands his limitations - lack of education and social standing - yet strives to make good with little but his enthusiasm and passion. He understands that what he offers is only the chutzpah needed to prop up the artist he loves, Felicia. He lives through her and the music he is passionate about and is deeply hurt and lost when that same energy and enthusiasm that brought him his moment of fame, is what causes everything to pass him by.

I truly loved Memphis and highly recommend it to everyone.

Updated On: 1/17/10 at 06:42 PM

I completely agree with what Scott said about Chad's take on the role. At first I was uneasy with what he was doing, but as I grew to understand his character, I felt he did an excellent job showing it.

I also really enjoyed the show, but I did have an issue with the sound. I didn't feel it was too loud, but I think the body mics are too low. I found it hard to understand lyrics because of that. Music was at a great level, but turn the juice up on the people.

I thought it would be cleared with the cast recording, but the same issue falls there. The vocals are too quiet. Turn it up!

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Nope, it's poorly mastered. I'm so disappointed. I really liked the music, but it doesn't come through the best.

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I am finally going to catch the show next week, I am excited. The only thing is I had to go for the balcony seats, hopefully they are not too bad.

And don't you love how is says, "Special Limited Edition!" I would hate to hear a "regular" edition. LOL!

PS- I have to say that I still LOVE the show. :)

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