BWW Reviews: FLASHDANCE Brings the '80s to Life in Exciting Production at the Wharton Center

The national tour of Flashdance the Musical kicked off the current season of the Wharton Center on Tuesday night with a high-energy show that did the classic movie justice. It is the 30th anniversary of the film, but the story and songs in the musical version enjoyable for all ages today.

Jillian Mueller is absolutely astounding as the lead Alex Owens. She has a gorgeous voice that sounds pure and perfect in every number. Mueller is a strong dancer as well and does a great job throughout the show, but especially when Alex does her big audition at the end of the show. Her sincerity brings the role to life in a way that makes the audience root for her just like Jennifer Beals did as Alex in the film.

The cast of the production is full of energy. They all are extremely talented, both vocally and with their dance abilities. Corey Mach is endearing as Nick with his boyish charm and great voice. Alex's friends who dance with her at the club, Gloria, Tess, and Kiki, played by Ginna Claire Mason, Alison Ewing, and Dequina Moore, are a delight on stage. They all have vivacious personalities that stand out on stage and are very entertaining throughout the entire show with their antics and musical numbers.

The production has memorable songs from the film such as "Maniac," "Gloria," and "What a Feeling" along with songs that have been wrote just for the show. It is set in the 80s like the film and it transports the audience perfectly back to that era with the costumes, set, and dancing. It has some of the iconic scenes from the film as well, especially Alex's water dance number, which is really fascinating to see live on stage. The entire show is just a fun experience from beginning to end.

It does not matter if you have never watched the movie or if you are an avid fan of it, Flashdance the Musical will be a fun time for anyone that comes to see it. The singing, dancing, and crazy, florescent colors of the 80s will bring a smile to the face of the audience members.

Flashdance the Musical is currently running now through October 13th at the Wharton Center. For more information, visit www.flashdancethemusical.com. For tickets, visit www.whartoncenter.com or call 1.800.WHARTON.