Review: Gloriously Rendered AN AMERICAN IN PARIS at The Fox Theatre

The 1951 film, AN AMERICAN IN PARIS, was recently broadcast on Turner Classic Movies, and I had a chance to watch it before attending the recent musical adaptation that is currently playing the Fox Theatre. The film is a classic, and I'm happy to report that the new musical version is an excellent take on the story. Filled with wonderful "triple threat" (acting, dancing, singing) performances that do more than justice to the original work, this is an uplifting, amusing, and immensely entertaining production that I cannot recommend highly enough. The opportunity to hear such lush orchestrations of George Gershwin's (lyrics by Ira Gershwin) music, combined with some extraordinary dance sequences and a compelling story, is one that should not be missed.

Set in Paris just after the end of World War II, the story follows Jerry Mulligan, a serviceman who decides to stay in the city to pursue his dream of becoming an artists. He meets Adam Hochberg, a composer/pianist with a wry sense of humor, and the character who actually narrates this tale, giving his perspective to the proceedings. Jerry is also introduced to Henri Baurel, the heir to the Baurel textile business, who would much rather pursue a career as a song and dance man. Enter Lise Dassin, a beautiful and talented ballet dancer who manages to captivate all three men, leaving us with a four sided love story.

Garen Scribner does very nice work as Jerry Mulligan, making the role his own while projecting that same likable charm that marked Gene Kelly's performance in the film. He displays a natural grace and infectious enthusiasm in his dance numbers, and also a strong voice. Etai Benson is simply a riot as the wise-cracking composer, Adam. The book (by Craig Lucas) gives him the lion's share of the great lines, and Benson makes the most of the opportunity. But, his tender take on "But Not for Me" is actually his most powerful moment. Nick Spangler rounds out the trio as Henri Baurel, who passionately wants to go to America and perform on stage, despite his questionable abilities. While he may be a bit of a buffoon at times, there are revelations that will make you appreciate his character more as the story unfolds. Sara Esty is delightful as the petite Lise. Esty perfectly embodies our conceptions of a budding prima ballerina with her work, while also delivering lovely renditions of Gershwin's music, particularly "The Man I Love."

That core group is augmented by an exceptional supporting cast. Standouts include Emily Ferranti as Milo Davenport, a patron of the arts who commissions an original ballet that will feature Adam's music, Jerry's designs, and the chance to perform that Lise truly deserves. Gayton Scott steals every scene she's in as Madame Baurel, and that's to the show's benefit. I'm not going to list everyone, but the dancing, which is so important to this show, is just impeccably executed.

Christopher Wheeldon's direction and choreography are brilliantly realized. The show flows seamlessly from scene to scene with the transitions occurring with a rarely scene sense of flair and style. Rob Fisher's musical score adaptation is lovingly rendered and the orchestra gives it a lush, gorgeous sound. Bob Crowley's set and costume designs capture the era with color and vibrancy. 59 productions does spectacular work with the projection designs that fill the stage with images of Paris and other visual elements that sometimes interact with the actors. Natasha Katz lights it all beautifully.

I can't say enough good things about AN AMERICAN IN PARIS. It's a truly splendid show that will captivate you completely. It continues through January 29, 2017 at The Fabulous Fox Theatre.

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