“‘Memphis’ is not a comedy but it’s still a cartoon,” says Charles Isherwood.
I went on Friday night and I don’t disagree but I still liked it a lot. Excellent dancing, singing and acting — excellent performers and very good choreography (by Sergio Trujillo — who did chor for “Jersey Boys” as well). I found the basic story a bit facile and, unfortunately Danny Tidwell (my main reason for going) is not in it very much — he’s a dancer but has no speaking part — but still, it’s definitely worth seeing, especially if you like good singing, fun dance numbers that make you want to get up out of your seat, and a story that’s feel-good in a “Dirty Dancing” kind of way.
I’m out the door (Cedar Lake opens at Joyce tonight) but my review is coming soon — along with more pictures!
In the meantime, watch a good audio / slide show at the above NY Times link.
Above photos by Joan Marcus.