BWW Reviews: ELMER GANTRY at Signature is Just Plain Heavenly

When I heard that Signature Theatre would be producing the musical ELMER GANTRY, I immediately recalled the 1960 film which starred Burt Lancaster and Jean Simmons with music composed and conducted by Andre Previn. Signature Theatre Artistic Director is very familiar with the musical by Bob Satuloff and Mel Marvin, book by John Bishop, additional book by Lisa Bishop, and new orchestrations by Bruce Coughlin. He directed the show fifteen years ago in Chicago at the Marriott Lincolnshire.

Schaeffer wanted to bring ELMER GANTRY back to the DC area where it premiered at the Ford's Theatre and played there again later. The fact that it never made it to Broadway did not dampen his desire to give the show another shot. In the program, Schaeffer explained Signature's mantra, "...our history of producing musicals like ELMER GANTRY that are not technically premieres but that need an artistic home to continue to refine the material. Our recent productions of CHESS, THE VISIT, and THE WITCHES OF EASTWICK are good examples of this second type of "new" musical pieces that premiered elsewhere but had important subsequent productions at Signature."

Thank goodness for Schaeffer. While ELMER GANTRY may not be the next Signature show to attempt a place on Broadway, it is a joy to watch. The show is based on Sinclair Lewis' 1927 hit book that was banned in many cities due to its depiction of evangelical ministers in a derogatory manner.

Thankfully, Schaeffer found Charlie Pollock to play the leading role of "Elmer". The opening scene at a train station where you see traveling salesman "Gantry" trading tales with other salesmen will remind many of the opening scene in THE MUSIC MAN. In fact, I could easily imagine Pollock playing "Harold Hill". Pollock is a former minister, who portrays a salesman who was a former minister, and then after observing a woman preacher Sister Sharon (played by the wonderful Mary Kate Morrissey) sees an opportunity to return to making a living peddling the Bible. He is infatuated by Sister Sharon. Her character is based on the evangelist preacher Aimee McPherson. Yes, that Aimee McPherson who was the basis of Signature's presentation of Kathie Lee Gifford's musical SAVING AIMEE which was reincarnated on Broadway unsuccessfully as SCANDALOUS. It starred the talented Carolee Carmello and Morrissey in fact reminded me of Carmello and what a compliment that is.

Pollock and Morrissey work beautifully together. They have a number of lovely duets.

But it is Pollock's show. He alone is worth the price of admission. He is like the"Energizer Bunny" as his stage presence is just plain infectious.

To aid the success of the gospel singing, Gantry brings some "color" to the all White choir with the talented trio of Ashley Buster, Daphne Epps, and the simply amazing Nova Y. Payton. Epps and Payton were 2/3 of the "Dreams" from the Signature version of DREAMGIRLS. Whenever the gospel choir perform, the show takes off.

Pollock is aided by an incredibly talented ensemble headed by newcomer Jessica Lauren Bell (Paula) who falls for Gantry and falls apart as she sees he has his eyes elsewhere. Look for her in many more Signature shows.

The cast is filled with Signature regulars like Matt Conner (who actually utilizers his musical acumen by actually playing a piano), Lawrence Redmond, Paul Scanlan, Bobby Smith, Stephen Gregoary Smith, Russell Sunday, and Harry Winter.

Karma Camp once again shines bringing her simple yet enjoyable choreography. Dan Conway is responsible for the simple but workable set, Frank Lebovitz does effective work with the Costumes, Chris Lee uses clever lighting, and maybe most importantly, the great sound is achieved by Lane Elms. You can hear every lyric.

But, like every musical, you must appreciate the Music Direction by Vadim Feichtner who along with his nine musicians, makes the evening so memorable.

While the topic of evangelical ministers may not your cup ot tea, don't hesitate to check out ELMER GANTRY. You will be glad you did.

ELMER GANTRY runs until Nov. 9. For tickets, call 703-573-SEAT or visit www.signature-theatre.org.

cgshubow@broadwayworld.com

To post a comment, you must register and login.