THE HANGOVER REPORT – The Estefans’ ON YOUR FEET! sizzles when it sings and moves

IMG_4707The Estefans’ On Your Feet!, which opened last night at the Marquis Theatre, falls into that increasingly popular sub-category of cross-over jukebox musicals that chronicle the popular music industry. Musicals in this bucket include of the likes of Jersey Boys, Beautiful, Baby It’s You!, and Motown. I’m happy to report that On Your Feet!, which tells the story of the Estefans’ rise to international superstardom from their humble beginnings in Cuba, solidly places near the front of the pack. Although it doesn’t have quite the same visceral excitement of the long-running Jersey Boys (which coincidently is celebrating it’s tenth year on Broadway tonight), On Your Feet! is more theatrically sound and tastefully constructed than those other shows, thanks in large part to Jerry Mitchell’s smart, dynamic direction (the efficient set is by the ubiquitous David Rockwell and the effective pop concert lighting is by Kenneth Posner) and Sergio Trujillo’s sizzling, salsa-infused choreography. However, Alexander Dinelaris’s book, though completely serviceable, lacks sufficient danger and could use more tension and dramatic momentum. Indeed, a part of me thinks that perhaps the Estefans’ music – expertly played here by an outstanding onstage band – could benefit by being moved front and center within the context of an all-out, elaborate musical revue, à la After Midnight.

The fantastic mostly-Latino cast handles Mr. Trujillo’s thrilling choreography beautifully and does a great job with the material they’re given. The enthusiasm they exude on that stage is undeniably infectious. As Gloria, Alma Cuervo is giving an appealingly warm, grounded performance and uncannily looks and sounds like Ms. Estefan. The charismatic Josh Segarra, as Emilio, is appropriately smooth and sexy in a somewhat under-written role. Together, these two excellent young actors have wonderful chemistry, doing the Estefans’ relationship proud. Also, Andrea Burns is a hoot, bringing her usual irresistible sass to the role of Gloria’s frustrated mother.

RECOMMENDED

 

ON YOUR FEET
Broadway, Musical
Marquis Theatre
2 hours, 30 minutes (with one intermission)
Open run

Categories: Broadway, Theater

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