Sophisticated Ladies - Washington, DC

[DottieD'Luscia]

Posted: 5/9/10 at 9:54pm

My first and only exposure to Duke Ellington's, "Sophisticated Ladies" was the original Broadway production which I saw in March 1982. The current production playing at the historic Lincoln Theatre in Washington, DC stars Maurice Hines, who replaced his late brother, Gregory in the Broadway production.

To start off with, one would never know that Maurice Hines is 67 years old by the energy he displays throughout the evening, especially during his tap numbers. Unfortunately the numbers listed in the program don't give credit to specific cast members, so it's very difficult to remember who sang what. Sam J. Cahn (ensemble) is an amazing dancer who has wonderful stage presence. I found myself watching him throughout the show.

The choreography throughout the evening is joyous and exuberant. As a result, I found myself with tears in my eyes in many instances. There is something about tap dancing that just moves me.

That being said, Mr. Hines featured DC brothers John and Leo Manzari in one of the numbers. The brothers are 17 and 15, respectively, and their tap number brought the audience to its feet in the middle of Act 2. It was amazing.

The voices on the soloists were wonderful. They sang with just the right style that the songs needed. My quibbles are minor. I found some of the wigs and costumes a little tacky, but again, they didn't detract from my overall enjoyment with this production.

I can't wait to see it again!!

[hockeynut2]

Posted: 5/10/10 at 11:26am

Read all the reviews of Sophisticated Ladies on DC Theatre Scene. There's a great video of the show in our video room.

All the Sophisticated Ladies reviews in one place on DC Theatre Scene Updated On: 5/10/10 at 11:26 AM