BWW Reviews: MEMPHIS Lifts Appleton to its Feet

Memphis came to the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center to tell a story filled with racism, lost glory, depression and violence. Witnessing the powerful performances of the touring cast not only hit all of those points straight to the heart, but also push the energy and fun of the music over the top makes this show something special. Memphis' music (David Bryan) is as much a character as Huey (Joey Elrose) and Felica (Jasmin Richardson).

Delray (RaMond Thomas) kicks off the night in his small club on the wrong side of town. This is where this music lives, Huey through a combination of stubborn tenacity and naiveté brings that sound to the radio and eventually the TV. Ultimately his stubbornness seals his fate like in a Greek tragedy. But the music carries on through Felicia's career, on the stage of her national tour.

The night is a roller coaster of successes and failures. Huey succeeds on the radio, but some guys jump him and Felicia because of their mixed relationship. He succeeds on TV, but while trying to stand up for his dancers, he ruins his career. The music keeps on.

Performances up and down the cast flex a great range of performances. Some powerful melodies are carried by the strong voices. Others are carried with so much passion the emotion carries it through. Together they tell a powerful story about the growing pains not only of Rock and Roll, but also our country.

If you get the chance to see Memphis, jump at the opportunity. As it was only in Appleton for a few performances, get ready for the upcoming shows in the Fox Cities PAC's Broadway series.

The next show in the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center's Broadway series, Flashdance, is performing from November 12th - 17th. Tickets start at $50 and can be purchased at http://www.foxcitiespac.org

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