THE HANGOVER REPORT – Bernie, Victor, and Santino keep the cast-iron revival of HELLO, DOLLY! in tip-top shape

Bernadette Peters now leads "Hello, Dolly!" at the Sam S. Shubert Theatre.

Bernadette Peters now leads “Hello, Dolly!” at the Sam S. Shubert Theatre.

This afternoon, I revisited the lavish, cast-iron revival of Hello, Dolly!, this time with Bernadette Peters headlining the classic musical. She steps into the huge shoes left behind by Bette Midler (and superb alternate Donna Murphy), who all but guaranteed sold out houses during her run and snagged a Tony for Leading Actress in a Musical in the process. Ms. Peters is also joined by Victor Garber and Santino Fontana, who replace Tony-winners David Hyde Pierce and Gavin Creel. Has the production lost any of its luster? Not at all, I’m happy to report; it remains in tip-top shape.

In fact, the production has acquired a slightly rueful quality – thanks in large part to Ms. Peters’ heartfelt performance – adding texture to Jerry Zaks’ handsome, fool-proof staging. Whereas Ms. Midler brought an indefatigable confidence and megawatt glitter to the revival, Ms. Peters is a more fragile Dolly Levi. When the character proclaims that she’s ready to “rejoin the human race”, you have no worries that, in the hands of Ms. Midler, Dolly will have any trouble at all re-acclimating herself. However, Ms. Peters’ Dolly is taking a risk by doing so; letting go of the past may cripple this singular woman for good. Indeed, the performance brings new hues to the revival, warranting in my mind a return visit to the Shubert.

As Horace Vandergelder, Mr. Garber is excellent, giving a performance very much in the same mold as Mr. Hyde Pierce. The dependable and charismatic Santino Fontana is perfectly-cast, making for an ideal Cornelius Hackl. Mr. Fontana, who has spent less than a week in the role so far, grew stronger as the performance progressed, culminating in a courtroom scene (“It Only Takes a Moment”) of great poignance and charm. Also new to the cast are Charlie Stemp as Barnaby Tucker and Molly Griggs as Minnie Fay; both bring their own talents (in fact, the Barnaby’s character has been transformed into the premier dancing role, accommodating Mr. Stemp’s wonderful hoofing capabilities) and personalities to the show, making their supporting roles completely their own. Additionally, Kate Baldwin and Jennifer Simard continue their duties as Irene Malloy and Ernestina, respectively; their performances seem as newly minted as opening night.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

 

HELLO, DOLLY!
Broadway, Musical
Sam S. Shubert Theatre
2 hours, 40 minutes (with one intermission)
Open Run

Categories: Broadway, Theater

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