42nd Street - Coventry Musical Theatre Society

Coventry Musical Theatre Society has become a group known for their high quality productions, this is no exception.

42nd Street is a traditional musical filled to the brim with tap dancing numbers. The song and dance routines usually masquerade as rehearsals or numbers from the show within a show ‘Pretty Lady,’ this makes the sparkly costumes and full stage tapping sit more comfortably than in some other musicals.

Peggy Sawyer is the new girl trying to get in a Broadway Show. Julian Marsh is the director of the new show ‘Pretty Lady’ – for him and everyone else involved it is important the show is a hit. It seems however that it is doomed as problems turn up along the way. Will everyone pull together and create a hit show?

The principals were all foot, note and word perfect, their characterisation impeccable and enthusiasm tangible. To single out outstanding performances is impossible as they were all polished to near perfection.

With a simple but effective set, the dancing took centre stage. The opening number set the bar high for the rest of the show with a stage full of tap dancers and a complex routine. The rest of the show matched the standard set with gorgeous colourful costumes and a grinning energetic cast. The enjoyment felt by those on stage was infectious; I defy any to leave and not have one of the well known songs from the show in their head.
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This show blurs the lines between amateur and professional productions, my advice is to get yourself to 42nd Street and hear the lullaby of Broadway.