I enjoyed Violet at Encores, but I felt like Sutton faded into the background and Josh Henry and the gospel choir walked away with the show. The balance of power has been completely restored with the move to the American Airlines, and Sutton definitely owns the show now. (Josh Henry still gets the biggest hand of the night for "Let It Sing," but it doesn't overwhelm the evening like it did before.)
I actually think they had MORE props for the Encores staging, and it's not like Violet needs some multi-million dollar automated set, but things are pretty sparse. The band is onstage and all the action is performed on one level in front, just like at Encores. This puts an extra burden on the performers to carry the show, but luckily they are all equipped to do so.
The sound was pretty rough- the mics were turned up so loud, which may have been to compete with the overly loud band, but I'm sure this will be sorted out in previews.
Sutton really is doing excellent work here. It's nice to see her out her brassy/tapper/flapper mode. Vocally she's in top form and the acting is strong too. I've always enjoyed her performances, and this one is easy and refreshing.
All in all a good night at the theater.
Marie: Don't be in such a hurry about that pretty little chippy in Frisco.
Tony: Eh, she's a no chip!