REVIEW: Marriott's "On the Town" is a blast from the past

BY ED COLLINS

Looking for a pleasant night out. One with lots of laughs, entertaining music, and exceptional dancing? Then check out the Marriott Lincolnshire Theater’s new musical “On The Town” that opened August 13. It runs until mid-October and its a real blast from the past.

The setting is World War II and three sailors receive liberty from their ship for 24-hours to explore the sights and sounds of the Big Apple. And, boy, do they sure take advantage of it.

The show was originally created in 1944 based upon an idea by Jerome Robbins from the ballet “Fancy Free.” “On the Town” soon followed. Robbins joined Leonard Bernstein, who wrote the music, and Betty Comden and Adolph Green, who wrote the book and developed the lyrics.

Upon opening, The New York Times called the play “the freshest and most engaging musical show to come this way since the golden day of “Oklahoma” (that opened the year before). In 1949 MGM Studios turned the play into a popular musical that starred Gene Kelly and Frank Sinatra.

Music, dance and comedy carry the show. Max Clayton, Seth Danner and Jeff Smith star as the three sailors who are out for a good time with a talented backup cast and dance ensemble that will knock your socks off.

Kudos go to the show’s Director David Bell, along with Tom Ryan’s set design, Nancy Missimi’s costume design, and Production Stage Manager Michael Hendricks. Music Direction under Ryan Nelson and Conductor Patti Garwood, and Choreography under Alex Sanchez was fantastic.

If you are in the mood for some light-hearted comedy, along with some dazzling song and dance numbers, then head over to the Marriott Lincolnshire Theater before October 12 for a delightful evening of entertainment.

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