42nd Street isn’t reinventing the wheel, but sometimes a well-oiled, expertly choreographed wheel is exactly what you need. This musical, a love letter to the golden age of Broadway, bursts onto the stage with infectious energy and enough tap dancing to keep your feet tapping long after the curtain falls.
A Timeless Celebration of Showbiz
The story is pure, unadulterated backstage magic. We follow Peggy Sawyer (played by Nicole-Lily Baisden), a wide-eyed chorus girl thrust into the spotlight when the leading lady goes belly-up. The underdog narrative, sprinkled with backstage drama and Broadway dreams, is as delightful now as it was in 1980. Nicole-Lily really helps to carry this production and I thoroughly enjoyed her performance.
Showstopping Numbers and Dazzling Choreography
The true star of 42nd Street is the tap dancing. It’s electrifying. The precision, power, and sheer joy radiating from the ensemble is breathtaking. Numbers like “We’re in the Money” and “Lullaby of Broadway” are guaranteed crowd-pleasers. I mean, it’s the classic Brodway chorus line happening in front of you.
A Touch of Camp and Classic Charm
The show leans heavily into its campy charm. The jokes are predictable, the plot predictable, but that’s part of the nostalgic appeal. It’s a return to a simpler time in musical theatre, where big band music and dazzling costumes reign supreme.
When I was a kid, my parents would often watch classic movies on CBC (which ran them on weekends). Watching this stage show feels very much like that. It’s nostalgia, it’s classic, it feels like something you should watch so that you can check it off a list.
Not Without Its Flaws
While the energy is undeniable, the second act can feel slightly sluggish. The humor might feel a touch dated to some, and the focus on pure spectacle can overshadow character development.
The Verdict: Entertainment Despite Its Flaws
42nd Street is a classic Broadway musical, and if you go into it with that mindset, it is enjoyable. It’s a celebration of the magic of theatre and a love letter to tap dancing. If you’re looking for a show that will leave you smiling and humming the tunes, then 42nd Street is a sure bet. Just don’t expect a profound theatrical experience – it’s about escapism and joyful entertainment, delivered with tap shoes and a wink.
