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Julia Macchio and the non-equity cast of the Flashdance the Musical national tour are dazzling!
This musical features the infamous sweater sequence and hit songs from the cult favorite 1983 film such as Maniac, Manhunt, Gloria, I Love Rock and Roll and the title song Flashdance…What a Feeling! Add to that about a dozen other songs including the fun Put It On.
Julia Macchio‘s Alex is the perfect leading lady and carries the show effortlessly with her skillful dancing and singing. She reminded me of a young Jenn Gambatese (circa Fame/Disney’s Tarzan) and hopefully there’s a turn on Broadway or an equity national tour in the future.
While the musical revolves around Alex (the steel worker by day and exotic dancer by night who dreams of being a professional ballet dancer) it also incorporates some new characters (including Gloria, a combination of Jeanie and Tina) and adds backstory to characters such as Nick (Alex’s handsome boss).
Highlights from among the cast included: Macchio as Alex, Tracy Bidleman as Hannah, Tanisha Moore as Alex’s fellow dancer at Harry’s, Kiki; Hannah K. MacDonald as Alex’s best friend, Gloria, and John Langley & Zach Sutton as steel workers, Joe and Andy. Unfortunately the weak link in the show was leading man, Ryan Neal Green as Nick. He had a beautiful moment during the first act duet, Here and Now, and yet his weaknesses were showcased during his solo, Enough, where he had difficulty hitting the high notes.
Robbie Roth and Robert Cary‘s new songs were solid and complimented Paul Stancato‘s energetic and spirited dance routines. Special favorites included: Put it On, Experience, Here and Now, and Let Go. My only complaint is that the numbers are too short. 😉
Parents can rest easy knowing that there is no strip club in this production of Flashdance rather the competing club has a pole and the girls wear some sexy get-ups. Compared to shows such as Miss Saigon the sexuality is mild to moderate (PG-13) while the language is clean.
Disclaimer: I had my ticket comped for review purposes but all opinions are my own.