Like so many shows headed to Broadway, Chicago is the test market for solving problems. Such is the case with The Devil Wears Prada the Musical, which now runs at the James M. Nederlander Theater through August 21.
James Alsop – Choreographer
Elton John’s music is great and James Alsop’s choreography is exciting and clean. I got a chance to talk to James and asked him what his favorite number on the show is. She responded, “Oh my God. Well, it’s really hard for me to pick my favorite dance number on the show just because the whole story, music, and show, they all play different kinds of music and different kinds of dances, which brings out these different styles that are specific just for the song. So for me, each one feels so good for each song that it’s really hard for me to pick one. If I had to do it, if I had to convince you of something, I would just say that the end of the first act is something incredible. I’ll leave it like this. I have to agree with her, the ending of the first act is pretty good.
The set design is great, and I have to give a standing ovation to the smooth set changes. They become a character in the show.
Kate Wetherhead’s book needs a bit of work in places in the second act. Conversations between Miranda and Andy are sometimes stiff.
The weak links for me were Michael Tacconi as boyfriend Nate Angstrom. There was absolutely no connection to Andy as his boyfriend. He’s more into the ‘friend zone’ attitude. When they break up, it’s like he’s like, “Oh, well,” and when they get back together it’s more, “Sure, we can get back together… or not, I don’t care.”
The other disappointment was the fashion. With costume design by Academy Award-nominated costume designer Arianne Phillips, she expected to walk out of the theater talking nonstop about amazing fashions. There were more creations among the public that managed to be remembered than on stage. With one exception, Emily’s (Megan Masako Haley) wardrobe was different, striking and memorable. Unfortunately, most of the other costumes were just that, costumes.
I love love love the diversity in the cast and the amazing voices. Taylor Iman Jones, who plays Andy Sachs, is funny, his voice is amazing and he embodies the role. Tony Award-winner Beth Leavel as Miranda Priestly doesn’t mimic Meryl Streep, but she makes her role her own and she works it. She is amazing. Another standout on the show is Megan Masako Haley as Emily Charlton. She has the right amount of grit and just enough of a condescending attitude to make the role believable. Last but not least, I must mention Javier Muñoz as Nigel Owens. One of my favorite characters in the movie also became a favorite in the stage production.
Having said all that, the question is “Is The Devil Wears Prada the Musical worth watching?” Yes it is. It’s a fun night with surprises and energy. Like I said, they’re brushing off problems before heading to Broadway. I’m sure it will be a huge hit, but it just needs a bit of work.
Until next time, keep your EYES to the sky!
Source: www.chicagonow.com