Puttin’ On the Ritz was performed at the Congress Theatre, Eastbourne, before continuing its tour.
As a new musical Golden Age tribute Puttin’ On the Ritz certainly has things to offer, but Act I needs major overhauling because as of now it looks and feels more ‘Holiday On Ice’ than Hollywood. For a start, the show lacks an orchestra, and why use pre-recorded tap dancing when there is such a talented cast of singers and dancers who can obviously tap very well? Live is always better, even if tap is not easy to amplify in big arenas.
What this show does have above everything else is Lorna Luft, although she seems hardly part of the show, belting out some classic Garland numbers, but not even present at the ‘I Got Rhythm’ finale – too bad! Nevertheless, Luft is precious, both for her huge talent and legacy. A moving rendition of ‘The Man That Got Away’ sends shivers down the spine.
The lovely and mischievous Emma Kate Nelson is the second major asset of the cast, excellent both as a singer –notably in ‘My Heart Belongs to Daddy’ – and as a tap dancer in many of the ensemble numbers.
Sarah Earnshaw also has her shining moment in ‘My Man’ and Kate Somerset How impresses with ‘Lazy River’. Leading singer and MC Paul Hazel is wonderful in ‘Mr Bojangles’.
The choreography by Emma Rogers is more Vegas than Broadway, but much more effective in Act II with fully staged versions of ‘Another Op’nin’ Another Show’ and ‘Steppin’ Out With My Baby’.
While not quite as good nor as funny as the usual Eastbourne summer offering Gotta Sing Gotta Dance, Puttin’ On the Ritz will surely grow as a song and dance extravaganza, especially if it keeps such a strong ensemble. A bit of humour injected here and there would not hurt, but the show should be in good shape for its scheduled Chinese tour. For now, it is headed for Manchester, Edinburgh and Norwich, among other locations.
Patrick Honoré
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