Anything Goes Review

The Broadway-Revival of Anything Goes has hit the road, and it opened last night at DPAC. 

I knew NOTHING about the show going in, other than there were songs by Cole Porter featured and the poster looks like an awesome 1930s film.  Based on that alone, I was sold, and here's why:

If you don't know who these people are, I have a box set you can borrow.

There's not much that my dad has passed on to me that he loves.  For instance, I don't run.  (Blech!)  I don't play golf. (Booooooring!) Those things, he gave to my brother, Mark.  But I, at least got the good stuff, as far as I'm concerned:  my dad's love of music and his love for the lavish 1930s and 1940s musical.  Specifically, Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers.  I could sit on a Saturday and find a Fred and Ginger movie on one of the 7 channels we had--hey, it was the 80s!--and be entertained forever.  I was mesmerized by the footwork, the costumes, the amount of practice that Fred Astaire became known for to get every single shot right.  When he died inn 1987, I thought at the time, in my tween/early teen mind that it was the single saddest day of my life. 

That's why I loved Anything Goes.  This show is the closest thing you can get to a Fred Astaire/Ginger Rogers musical on stage.  There's the blonde, brash talking dame in Reno Sweeney.  The hero who has a magical singing voice and swift feet in Billy Crocker.  There's comedy at every turn, with campy one liners that just crack you up whether you see them coming or not.  And the costumes are amazing.  Lots of sparkly evening gowns...just like a lavish 1930s or 1940s musical. 

Hands down, the show stopper is the tap number at the end of the first act.  I could. Not. Look. Away.  And you won't, either.

If you are a fan, closeted or otherwise, who loves the Hollywood musical, this show is for you.  I loved it, and you will, too.  It's fun, funny and a great escape from the hum-drum ordinary. I'm so glad I saw it.

I think I'm feeling a Fred and Ginger marathon tonight.  I feel sorry for my fiance.  Let's hope he's a musical fan, too!



Get tickets for anything goes by calling the Durham Performing Arts Center at 919-680-2787, or by visiting their website.  Anything Goes plays as part of the SunTrust Broadway Series at DPAC from now until March 24.


Alli


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