“An evening of pure joy and entertainment, ‘Bullets Over Broadway’ at The Legacy Theater delivers laughter, thrills, and an unforgettable experience.” – Bill Stokes, Springfield Scene Magazine
The Legacy Theater, a cherished local community theater, has brought the uproarious Broadway comedy musical “Bullets over Broadway” to its stage, and the result is an evening of pure joy and entertainment. Chaz Wolcott directs an amazing array of volunteers, musicians, and cast members to produce a delightful production, filled with laughter, catchy tunes, and a dash of intrigue. It offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you grinning from ear to ear.
Set in the heart of New York City during the roaring 1920s, “Bullets Over Broadway” transports you into a world of glitz, glamour, and gangsters. The plot follows a down-on-his-luck playwright, David Shayne (played by Will Moffett), who teams up with a gangster named Nick Valenti (played by Mark Wheeler), willing to finance his play as long as his beautiful but off-putting girlfriend, Olive Neal (played by Campbell Coker), is cast in a key part. As David becomes embroiled in the world of eccentric mobsters, his journey intertwines with the world of Broadway, resulting in hilarious encounters and zany situations.
What truly sets “Bullets Over Broadway” apart is its talented cast. The actors deliver outstanding performances, talented singing which inject their characters with a contagious energy. From the beginning, it transports you to the 1920s capturing the essence of the era with clever stage design and dazzling costumes of the “Atta-Girls.”
Standout musical performances that will captivate you are Lori Ann McCabe in the role of Helen Sinclair, and Kinsey Peotter as Ellen, David’s girlfriend. Lori Ann plays the diva role with aplomb and perfect comedic timing. She takes you all the way to Broadway with the song, “There’s A Broken Heart With Every Light On Broadway.” We see the amazing singing talent of Kinsey as she sings, “I’ve Found A New Baby” in a scene where she’s getting back at David for neglecting her.
Campbell Coker brings life to the character Olive Neal, who is able to tantalize and attract attention to herself but lacks social graces and vocal charm. Her best scenes are when she sings “The Hot Dog Song” with supporting actor Tim Connor and the Hot Dog dancers, and also with Greg Peterson as Warner Purcell in the song, “Let’s Misbehave.”
Will Moffett was brilliantly cast as David Shayne. The complexity of his part and his singing talent resonate throughout the show. He shines as he sings, “I’m Sitting On Top Of The World” and the duet with Kinsey, ”She’s Funny That Way.” He makes the character relatable as the show takes him from an aspiring playwright to a successful director and through the dark night of the soul where he nearly loses everything.
Matthew Woodson, as Cheech, played the tough guy role perfectly, and his singing and dancing talents stand out in the catchy tune, “Tain’t Nobody’s Bizness If I Do.” He sings “Up A Lazy River” with style as he goes about his gangster business.
The musical numbers in “Bullets Over Broadway” are toe-tapping and catchy, with lyrics that will have you humming long after the curtain call. The orchestra, directed by Melissa Blankestyn, skillfully accompanies the cast, enhancing the overall experience and ensuring that the music complements the performances flawlessly.
Attending a performance of “Bullets Over Broadway” at The Legacy Theater is an absolute delight. From the moment the curtain rises until the final bow, the show captivates with its humor, catchy music, and impeccable performances. Whether you’re a fan of musical theater or simply looking for a night of laughter and entertainment, this production is sure to leave you thoroughly satisfied.
Bullets over Broadway runs through July 23rd with shows tonight at 8pm (July 15th) and tomorrow at 2pm. Also next week July 19th to July 23rd. Wednesday and Thursday at 7pm, Friday and Saturday at 8pm and Sunday at 2pm. Get your tickets: http://www.atthelegacy.com/