Jukebox musicals come in many forms. There are the shows that present songs as vignettes by a specific composer (Ain’t Misbehavin’), musicals that are biographical in nature (Jersey Boys, Beautiful), and productions that create a story with the songs of an artist(s) shoe-horned into the plot (Mamma Mia!, Rock of Ages). All Shook Up, which
features the songs recorded by Elvis Presley, falls under the latter
category and is receiving a lively, appealing production at the
Goodspeed Opera House.
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| Ryan Mac and the cast of Goodspeed's All Shook Up. Photo by Diane Sobolewski |
The show, with echoes of Footloose and Hairspray,
begins as Chad, the likeable, roguish center of the story, is being
released from jail, which allows for a high-spirited opening number to
“Jailhouse Rock.” He stops at a small, sleepy town to have his
motorcycle repaired. His appearance, friskiness, and womanizing ignites
the down-to-earth townsfolk to suddenly erupt with love. Keeping track
of all the budding romances almost requires a scorecard. Nothing can
prevent cupid’s arrows from finding their mark, not even the Mayor, who
has outlawed PDA (public displays of affection). In the end, which
includes a satisfying twist or two, weddings abound and blissfulness
reigns.
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| Ryan Mac and the cast of Goodspeed's All Shook Up. Photo by Diane Sobolewski |
The libretto by Joe DiPiertro, a Tony-winning writer for Memphis and the long-running Off-Broadway revue, I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change,
is well-plotted, fast-moving, and full of humor and silliness. I did
find the cuffuffle over two teen’s interracial romance to be misplaced,
especially when another interracial relationship proceeds with no
hubbub.
A key to a rewarding jukebox musical is if an artist’s songs are
effective in advancing the plot and providing motivation to a
character’s actions. On this count, DiPiertro finds the mark. The over
two dozen Elvis hits, which include “All Shook Up,” “Blue Suede Shoes,”
“Burning Love,” “Heartbreak Hotel,” and “Hound Dog,” are well-placed
and come across as written specifically for the show.
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| The cast of Goodspeed's All Shook Up. Photo by Diane Sobolewski |
Director Daniel Goldstein keeps the show moving quickly, imbuing
each scene with sparkle and comedy. While Act II loses some steam,
Goldstein still enables the show to come together for a gratifying
conclusion. He seamlessly incorporates Beowulf Boritt’s collapsing
scenic designs and Paige Seber’s pinpoint lighting design. He cedes the
helm often to Choreographer Byron Easley who infuses almost every
musical moment with energetic, enthusiastic dance routines.
The two nominal stars of the show are Ryan Mac (Chad) and Kerstin
Anderson (Natalie). Mac, as the rascally Chad, could easily slip into
the role of Danny Zucco from Grease, brings, at times, a laid
back coolness to his character and, at other points, an endearing
befuddlement to the role. Kerstin Anderson infuses her portrayal of
Natalie, the tomboyish auto mechanic in love with Chad and loved by the
nerdling Dennis, with an independent temperament and winsome heart.
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| Montria Walker, Ryan Mac, Jenna Bienvenue and Corinne C. Broadbent in Goodspeed's All Shook Up. Photo by Diane Sobolewski |
Not to take anything away from Ryan Mac and Kerstin Anderson, but
it is the featured players that elevate the quality and overall
enjoyment of the production. Two to spotlight are Jordan Matthew Brown
and Jessica Crouch. Brown brings an endearing, cuddly charm to his role
as the self-depreciating Dennis. Ms. Crouch, gives her character, the
blonde bombshell Miss Sandra, Director of the local museum, a pitch
perfect haughtiness. Other featured performers worth noting are
Benjamin Howes (Jim), L Morgan Lee (Sylvia), Jackera Davis (Lorraine),
Jackson Reagin (Dean), Amy Hillner Larsen (Mayor Matilda), and Kilty
Reidy (Sheriff Earl). When give their moments to shine, they don’t
disappoint.
All Shook Up, playing at the Goodspeed Opera House through August 24. Click here for dates, times, and ticket information.
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