Forty Second Street at Spring-Ford High School

Theater: Spring-Ford High School
Show: Forty Second Street
Seen: March 29, 2008
Reviewer: Joe Niagara

There are no better words in the English dictionary than musical comedy.
Spring-Ford High School’s 42nd Street, a musical telling the tale of another
musical, Pretty Lady, was filled with catchy tunes, tip-tapping dance
numbers, and a nostalgic spirit in their recent production of this
well-known musical.

Originally a 1933 movie, 42nd Street was adapted for stage production by
legendary Broadway producer David Merrick in 1980. It tells the story of
the authoritative Julian Marsh as he attempts to create a successful musical
despite the pressures of the Great Depression. Wide in scope, the musical
depicts the entire production from the writers, assistants, dancers,
singers, and, of course, the constant infighting between the nearly
washed-up Dorothy Brock and the small-town upstart Peggy Sawyer.

Niki Ianni, who played the role of Dorothy Brock, stole the show with her
characterization of the pretentious prima donna. She delivered her lines
with eloquence and maturity; her vocal performance was impressive especially
during the solo “I Know Now." Ianni anchored the entire production which
allowed other performers to feed off her energy and grace.

Capturing the innocent nature of Peggy Sawyer, Kristin Beers gave an
entertaining performance as the stereotypical naiveté. Not to be taken
lightly, Beers impressed with her tap dancing skills and comedic timing.

Sara O’Donnell (Maggie Jones) complemented the musical talents of the leads
with her own notable voice.

Mitchell Krauss as Julian Marsh, and Ben Lepard as Billy Lawlor provided
solid male vocals. Meanwhile, Gary Reagan, who played Andy Lee, surprised
the audience with his apt dancing ability.

Anchoring the show was the spectacular dance routines. For the most part,
they executed the difficult choreography beautifully. Ashley Orsino, Erin
Colgan, and Hallie Thornton Lorraine Flemming, Phyllis Dale, and Ann Reilly,
respectively wowed the audience. However, while the dancing was impressive,
the chorus failed to complement the leads’ singing; they were often
overshadowed or inaudible.

Chemistry among the key performers was sometimes lacking, but cast members
gave an earnest effort in their performance. The production also had other
unstable elements, including a few missed lines, sound problems, and obvious
breaks in the pace of the performance.

42nd Street is a demanding production for a high school to undertake, but
Spring-Ford High School gave it a admirable effort.

by Joe Niagara of Upper Darby High School