SOME LIKE IT HOT – Hollywood Pantages Theatre
Reviewed by Nyla Arslanian
It definitely was a hot time in town last night for the opening night of Some Like It Hot at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre.
From the beautifully staged, costumed and amazingly choreographed opening and continuing following every number, the audience enthusiastically appreciated the antics, the music and dance as the story unfolded. Tarra Conner Jones as “Sweet Sue” takes control at the opening number and there’s no doubt who’s in charge when she’s on stage.
Although the premise of the play does stretch a point or two, it doesn’t make any difference to either the quality of the performances or the entertainment value of this high-stepping show.
High-stepping, indeed, the choreography truly leaves you breathless as the outstanding ensemble seemingly moves almost effortless through number after number.
Two out of work musicians who witness a mob hit take cover in an all-female band heading by train to California. Matt Loehr as “Joe/Josephine” and Tavis Kordell as “Jerry/Daphne” keep the laughs coming as they successfully change genders.
The fun continues and things get more complicated with love interests “Sugar” (Leandra Ellis-Gaston) initially befriends the imposters beguiling “Joe/Josephine” who, just to make things a bit more complicated takes on another persona to woo her. Meanwhile, “Jerry/Daphne” is pursued by millionaire “Osgood” (Edward Juvier). Both Ellis-Gaston and Juvier are marvelous and convincing and excellent.
Devon Goffman as gangster “Spats” is sufficiently menancing to make the fear of reprisal for witnessing the mob hit somewhat believable.
The staging, minimal and effective, culminates with an amazing and lengthy number toward the end of the second act that literally left me breathless. Movement and choreography combined in a dizzying sequence of doors opening and closing was one of the most masterful theatrical performances this reviewer has ever witnessed.
Hats off to Casey Nicholaw whose direction and choreography made this event so spectacular.
Clearly, this was a crowd pleaser as each musical number was enthusiastically cheered and applauded. Some Like It Hot is only in town until August 17, so run, don’t walk to get your tickets. A perfect theatrical treat for a hot summer evening.
Some Like It Hot runs through August 17. Performances Tuesday-Sunday; matinees on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets: https://www.broadwayinhollywood.com/events/detail/some-like-it-hot