An American in Paris is a new musical that won four Tony Awards in 2015. However, it doesn’t feel like a modern musical as it is based on the 1951 film of the same name. The music also doesn’t sound like it’s from the 50s. That’s because it’s from George Gershwin’s orchestral piece of the same name from 1928.
In the story, it’s 1945 and World War II has just ended. Jerry “missed his train home” and has decided to stay in Paris to become an artist. On his first day there, he meets Lise — and he is instantly smitten. He runs into her again soon after and learns that she has a serious boyfriend, a nightclub performer. He doesn’t let this deter him and he continues to pursue her. On a professional level, he strives to be a graphic designer for a ballet. The composer that is working on the music for the ballet also has a crush on Lise.
An American in Paris is half musical – half ballet. The best parts of the musical half are “I Got Rhythm”, “‘S Wonderful,” “I’ll Build a Stairway to Paradise,” “They Can’t Take That Away From Me,” and “Fidgety Feet”. The cast does an excellent job singing these songs. The dancing is fantastic as well. A ballet within the show takes place in the second act that showcases the talents on stage. Even the Joffrey Ballet would be impressed.
The play is completely in English, but there are a few French touches. Here are a few translations:
Merci – Thank you
Monsieur – Mr., sir
Madame – Mrs., ma’am
Merde – Shit!
Brianna Abruzzo (Spielberg’s West Side Story) is graceful as Lise. Her ballet dancing is most impressive. Michael Starr (Eric Andre’s Bad Trip) is fantastic as Jerry Mulligan, the ambitious and romantic American. Their chemistry together is very strong. Nicholos Barakos is very funny and charming as the composer, Oscar Levant’s role in the film. He steals a few scenes. Lucas Coatney-Murrieta is fantastic as the nightclub performer. The scene where he is writing his proposal letter to Lise is outstanding.
Cost of a ticket: $126 (Front) to $66 (Back)
PlaylistHQ Economic Rating: Worth It
Rating Scale: Exceptional Value > Worth It > Half Price > Go for Free > Don’t Bother
Will Jerry end up with Lise? Find out now through March 12th at An American in Paris!
Quinn Delaney
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