If you are anywhere on the East End, make sure you get to the Bay Street Theater for “Cagney The Musical,” which runs through July 26th. This show is tremendously entertaining on every level. It features superb acting, singing, and dancing, and a heart that had the opening-night audience standing, cheering, and applauding triumphantly by the final curtain. Produced by Bay Street in association with Riki Kane Larimer and directed by Bay Street Theater’s Associate Artistic Director Will Pomerantz, “Cagney The Musical” brings the story and career of James Cagney, from his early beginnings in vaudeville to his rise as a huge Hollywood star.
From the moment Bay Street Executive Director Tracy Mitchell and Bay Street’s Artistic Director Scott Schwartz introduced the show, one somehow knew something special was about to happen, and boy did it.
What happened was Robert Creighton starring as James Cagney. Now, taking into account that Mr. Creighton originally conceived the show and put together the music and lyrics, along with Christopher McGovern, one cannot see this show and not be in awe of his talents to dance, sing, and, quite frankly, put a show on his back. He not only successfully carries it but also lifts the rest of the cast into that magic zone that makes it a most memorable night of live theater. It must be stated that, when the standing ovation ended, the audience was most exuberant as they exited the theater, smiling and saying how much they truly enjoyed this show. Isn’t that the greatest sign of a successful night of live theater? There is also music by George M. Cohan in this show. The book is by Peter Colley.
Back to Robert Creighton as James Cagney, one has to marvel at the high energy that he pours out all over the stage. From my seat, I caught him winking at co-star Audrey Cardwell (Willie) in the middle of a complicated tap-dance number that made her smile back as if saying, “We’ve got this.” Moments such as these are what make a show special. Ms. Cardwell, as Willie, is brilliant because she is at home on stage. She owns her scenes and adds a special aspect whenever she takes over a scene in song, dance, or dialogue.
Bruce Sabath, as Jack Warner, was easily an audience favorite, commanding the stage throughout the show. Michael Starr, who portrayed Bob Hope, can really dance, as can Daniel Plimpton (as Bill Cagney). Corinne Broadbent shone as Jane, Jack Warner’s assistant, but radiated the spotlight when she solos the reprise of “A Work of Genius.”
Jim Borstelmann adds some spice as Schotzki, and Melissa Manchester tugged on hearts, performing and singing admirably in her role as “Ma Cagney.” Emma Kantor ably handles the off-stage voices.
Every Will Pomerantz-directed show bears his stamp of excellence. Mr. Pomerantz has that magic touch that comes from research and his ability to find where and how to place his actors for maximum effectiveness.
The dancing in “Cagney The Musical” is dazzling and a most important element in the show. The original choreography was by Josh Bergasse. Then choreographed by Jeremy Benton, with Doug Oberhamer doing the music direction, orchestrations, and arrangements.
A behind-the-scenes star is Mike Billings, who is the genius behind the lighting design. Costume design by Barbara Erin Delo added pizzazz to the show. Shaughn Bryant handled the sound design. Doing hair and make-up design is Liz Printz. The fight direction is handled by Sordelet Inc. The production stage manager is Amber R. Dettmers. Doing the scenic design are Christopher Swader and Justin Swader.
