BWW Reviews: CAN-CAN at Paper Mill is Beyond Spectacular

C'est vrai!! It's true. You can now see the fantastic Broadway bound production of Can-Can at Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn through October 26th. This presentation is the total package. While maintaining the tenor of the original show, this all-new revival of Can-Can has been carefully polished; a fresh, fun musical full of romance, scandal and humor in perfect measure.

Pistache, a Parisian cafe owner, decides to feature a risque dance, the Can-Can, in her club. But her defiance of the law could end both her business and her love life. Set in the Monmartre district of Paris in 1893, Can-Can was first performed on Broadway in 1953 and also had a 1960 film version.

Paper Mill's production of Can-Can features a book by Abe Burrows and a revised script by Joel Fields and David Lee. David Lee's direction is energetic and exciting; the show has a whole new life. Steve Orich provides the arrangements, orchestrations and musical direction that perfectly complement Lee's artistic vision.

The score shines with some of Cole Porter's beloved classic songs like "I Love Paris," and "C'est Magnifique." And, the stellar cast dazzles with Kate Baldwin as La Morne Pistache and Jason Danieley as her conflicted love interest, Aristilde Forestier. Baldwin and Danieley perform musical solos beautifully and the onstage chemistry between the two stars brings the show's charming plot full circle.

Greg Hildreth as Boris and Michael Kostroff as Jean-Louis add unforgettable humorous moments to the show. Michael Berresse perfectly portrays Hilaire Jussac, the slick, intellectual snob, who attempts to woo Claudine, played by Megan Sikora.

Outstanding choreography by Patti Colombo is highlighted by the exceptional talent and athleticism of the ensemble. Whether they are performing the spirited Can-Can or another dance number at the club, their execution is spectacular.

The scenes in Can-Can are made memorable with Costume Design by Ann Hould-Ward. From elegant dresses worn by Pistache to the fun frolicking outfits of the dance girls, Hould-Ward's designs are captivating. The flexible and colorful Scenic Design by Rob Bissinger allows for the smooth transitions in staging.

It's easy to give Can-Can a rave review. This first show of the Paper Mill season is not to be missed. As a matter of fact, you might return to the Paper Mill Playhouse more than once to enjoy it.

Can-Can will be performed at Paper Mill Playhouse through October 26th eight times a week, Wednesday through Sunday. Tickets may be purchased by calling (973) 376-4343, at the Paper Mill Box Office at 22 Brookside Drive in Millburn or online at www.papermill.org.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Paper Mill Playhouse

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