Wow! Was this production ever a let down!
Stephanie J. Block certainly starts things off with a bang, but the scenes that follow just bring the show to a halt. The book scenes are banal and stiff. While the three gals all have great pipes, with a standout performance by Block, the show rarely thrills. There are moments, but only moments, that hit the mark.
There’s an overall cheapness to the proceedings, and even the eye-popping costumes of Bob Mackie only add sparkle momentarily.
Jarrod Spector shines as Sonny Bono; and I’m sure the late Mr. Bono would be thrilled to have embodied that chiseled torso. As sexy as it looks, it’s oddly discerning. Even the chorus boys, who ably dance the clunky and pedestrian choreography of Christopher Gattelli, exhibit bodies built by Mark Fisher fitness. It’s a clever ploy to aid in the cover-up of a dull and barebones show.
Emily Skinner (always a winner) does a fine job as Cher’s mom, but we don’t need to hear Lucille Ball sing. That and the Robert Altman scene are bungle-some.
And all of this from director Jason Moore. The guy responsible for that other musical extravaganza , “Avenue Q.”
How could a singer with Cher's distinctive talent and versatility be given such a drab production? A total misfire.
I'm glad to hear that Cher is showing up and dancing in her seat—they’re going to need her to continue that attendance record displaying that kind of enthusiasm.
Updated On: 11/21/18 at 10:08 AM