Theatrical Review – 42nd Street

By Don Chaddock

The current show of “42nd Street,” put on by El Dorado Musical Theatre, is theater at its best. Rousing song and dance numbers, a great story and the decision to use the original Broadway choreography for the opening number, makes this show a must-see. The show pits a nearly washed-up actress, Dorothy Brock (Katherine Sorgea), against fresh-faced newcomer Peggy Sawyer (Carly Speno) in a Broadway show set in 1933. The fictional show is directed by Julian Marsh (Matt Surges), a tough-as-nails showman looking to reclaim a fading career. With the backdrop of the Great Depression, “42nd Street” is a tale of dreams lost and found. The catchy songs include “You’re Getting to be a Habit with Me,” “Young and Healthy,” “We’re in the Money,” “Lullaby of Broadway,” “Shuffle Off to Buffalo” and “Forty-Second Street.” Standouts include Surges, a 20-year-old Sacramento State student, whose acting skills are beyond his years. His rendition of “Forty-Second Street” is moving and was a great way to end the show. I enjoyed Surges when he played Lt. Cioffi in “Curtains” and he takes on his latest role with just as much gusto. He’s a joy to watch. Stefan Sorgea, an 18-year-old student at Folsom Lake College, kept the show moving as Andy. Heather Clark, 20, also attends Folsom Lake College. As Ann Reilly, she struts her stuff, playing off situations and the other actors. Clark wowed me when she did “Hairspray” a while back and she doesn’t disappoint in her latest role. Longtime favorites Helen Regula and Braiden Wells, as the playwrights, give stellar performances.

In all, I highly recommend catching the next showing of “42nd Street.” Rating: 5 out of 5 stars