Review: CRAZY FOR YOU, Gillian Lynne Theatre
Photo credit: Johan Persson
Crazy for You has burst onto the stage in an all-singing, all-dancing, irresistibly charming musical revival at the Gillian Lynne Theatre in London, and if this isn’t what musical theatre is meant to be, we don’t know what is! Glitzy dance numbers, feathery costumes, hats, tap shoes, a farcical comedy of errors, dancers rising up through the stage, jokes, slapstick comedy… who could ask for anything more?
There is never a moment when the stage is quiet or still (even in the slower numbers), and if you’re looking for something that offers the purest of pure escapism, Crazy for You is the answer. With a simple and timeless story, brilliant music by Ira and George Gershwin, phenomenal dancing, and a stellar cast, this musical revival is a triumphant celebration of old and new musical theatre combined to create something really rather special indeed.
Crazy for You tells the tale of Bobby Child (played by the major talent that is Charlie Stemp), a charismatic young man with dreams of stardom in the world of theatre. He finds himself entangled in a romantic misunderstanding as he disguises himself as theatre impresario Bela Zangler (Tom Edden) and attempts to save a theatre in a small town named Deadrock – all while avoiding his terrifying mother and strident fiancé, Irene. Along the way, he encounters Polly (Carly Anderson), a strong-willed woman who captures his heart. The show weaves together laughter, love, and toe-tapping moments, keeping the audience engaged from start to finish – and then some; this is a fairly long show at 2 hours and 45 minutes, but it felt so much shorter.
The music of Crazy for You, composed by Ira and George Gershwin, is a treasure trove of timeless melodies. From the exuberant ‘I Got Rhythm’ to the soulful ‘Someone to Watch Over Me’ and the infectiously upbeat ‘Nice Work If You Can Get It’, all the songs we know so well have new life breathed into them, making them feel refreshed and exciting yet comfortingly familiar. It’s this feeling that makes the show such a fun one; seeing old favourites used in a new way is sensational.
The dancing in Crazy for You is really what this it’s all about. The showstopper moment of the first act, ‘I Got Rhythm’, received a well-deserved mid-performance standing ovation. Charlie Stemp's electrifying portrayal of Bobby Child turned the stage into a whirlwind of rhythm and dance, giving him the chance to paint a vivid picture of a dreamer caught in the mesmerising world of theatre, but although Stemp is undoubtedly the star of this show, the rest of the cast keep up with little effort required.
Carly Anderson's Polly seamlessly transitions from a tough-talking spitfire to a tender-hearted songstress, allowing her to show off her beautiful voice and dancing skills. Tom Edden's portrayal of Bela Zangler is comedic brilliance, while Natalie Kassanga's rendition of ‘Naughty Baby’ left the audience open-mouthed (in a good way!) Sam Harrison and Rina Fatania's hilarious antics as Eugene and Patricia Foder provide delightful comic relief, and proves that sometimes, even the most unexpected ideas can save the day.
Beowulf Boritt's set design is a cartoonishly fun idea. Whether whisking us backstage at the theatre or transporting us to the small town of Deadrock, the sets are visually stunning and full of whimsy. Boritt's attention to detail creates a world that is both realistic and wonderfully exaggerated, setting the scene in a way that lets the audience know exactly what they are in for. And the costumes by William Ivey Long are stunning; a true modernisation of the classic song and dance ensembles from yesteryear.
Director and choreographer Susan Stroman, a well-deserved award winner, demonstrates her expertise in this revival. With meticulous care and attention, she seamlessly blends the best elements of old and new musical theatre, resulting in a gorgeously exciting show. Stroman's vision brings out the best in the cast, creating a production that is a feast for the eyes and ears.
Crazy for You dances its way into our hearts with a hilarious mix of love gone awry, comedic mishaps, and a playlist of iconic tunes that make you want to find your own rhythm (after all, we’ve all got it!)
***** Five stars
Reviewed by: Lisamarie Lamb
Crazy For You plays at the Gillian Lynne Theatre until 20 January 2024, with tickets available here.