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| Jackson Davis. Courtesy Photo - 42nd moon |
42nd STREET MOON – “OH KAY!”
Poignant – Hysterical
It all starts out with dazzling pianist (Brandon Ames) at
the keyboard. Most of us are familiar with the musical “Oh Kay” – and it sounds
and looks like “Kay” will back another time. Why? ...Because -- the Gershwin
musical still sparkles after all these decades.
Theresa Byrne (Kay) is a strong presence in this freshened
up musical. Her operatic version of “Someone To Watch Over Me” – gives a new
look to one of the greatest songs ever written.
“Oh Kay” is pretty heavy on the dialogue – but that is the
way it was put together in the 20’s. But still – when the singers are simply
marvelous you know why this musical has endured over time. Here is the recipe. The entire cast is
really very funny and charming. How could anyone not like it?
Director Maureen McVerry has done a wonderful job in keeping
up the pace in this tuneful Gershwin musical. By the way, the sound quality was
superb in the Theatre. I also got a kick out of watching the magical changes in
the furniture on stage. One minute you are in a mansion and the next you are
out on a wonderful patio. Quick changes happen really fast. Remarkable.
“Oh Kay” of course is a love story sung by the captivating
cast – which is huge. The song “Do, Do, Do – is such fun to hear. The popular
song went on to sell plenty of records.
The Choreographer, Staci Arriaga is a stage wizard that
keeps those high steps moving. Also loved the exceptional Lighting design by
Mazz Kurzunski. And the Costumes to die over are by Stephanie Finader. Ron
Gasparinetti is an amazing set designer. He can design my place anytime. It
needs it.
The Cast is “Firecracker funny” and sometimes hysterical –
but they bring “Oh Kay” every actor you ever wanted to see on stage. Here is
the Powerhouse cast: Teressa Byrne, Jackson Davis (really funny), Alanna fox,
Kathryn Han, Christina Ingram, Craig Jessup, Erica Kimble, Tyler McKenna,
Lisa-Marie Newton, Amie Shapiro, Brian Yates Sharber. Stephen Vaught, Zack Thomas
Wilde and Skye Wilson.
RATING: THREE GLASSES OF CHAMPAGNE!!! – trademarked –
AT THE 42nd Street Moon Theatre at the Eureka
Theatre on Davis Street.
(((Lee Hartgrave has contributed many articles to the San Francisco Chronicle Sunday Datebook and he also produced and hosted a long-running Arts Segment on PBS KQED)))
FOLLOW LEE: Facebook @ Lee Hartgrave
Twitter @ famereporter
