The Tony award winning musical 42nd street tells the story of famed musical producer Julian Marsh’s attempt to put on a profitable production during the Great Depression. Along the way we witness Peggy Sawyer’s journey from small town girl to big time star and Dorothy Brock’s retreat from show business where she has enjoyed fame for over a decade.
This performance by KD Productions brings together a young cast of individuals who are either currently in training or about to embark on it and their performance does much to suggest their future success. Karina Locke portrays the irrepressible optimism of Peggy Sawyer delightfully and Lucinda Withers, who plays Dorothy Brock, has a wonderfully seductive jazz quality to her voice reminiscent of the jazz stars of the 1940’s.
The entire cast pour their hearts into the performance, tapping and high kicking furiously through such well-known tunes as ‘We’re In The Money’ and ‘Lullaby of Broadway’. The dancing is mostly slick and the enthusiasm unmistakable. Special mention must be given to Albert Linsdell (Billy Lawlor) whose dancing was particularly dynamic, spinning effortlessly through double and triple pirouettes and gliding around the stage with his top hat and cane. The band too trots through the score largely successfully, though there were a few shaky chords at points.
One problem however was sound. Lines spoken by those without mics were often lost and for those who had mics the sound transmitted had a distinctive muffled quality. Furthermore at times actors stood just outside their light, leaving their faces in the shadow which was a shame.
This production showcases the talent of some young individuals who I am sure we will be seeing more of in years to come, and is an enjoyable way to spend the afternoon if you enjoy jazz and musicals.
