Review: ‘High Button Shoes’ at Encores Great American Musicals at City Center
The cast of “High Button Shoes”
The remainder of the rather energetic cast includes Aidan Alberto as Stevie, Jennifer Allen as Shirley Simpkins, Carla Duren as Fran, Chester Gregory as Papa Longstreet, Mylinda Hull as Nancy, Marc Koeck as Oggie, Matt Loehr as Uncle Willy, and Wayne Pretlow as Elmer Simpkins.
As a traveling snake oil salesman such as Mr. Floy might say, “there’s something for everyone” in this show.
Burlesque? You got it!
Vaudeville? Yessir!
Keystone Kop chase scenes? We have those as well.
Deep reflection and insight? Not so much.
What there is to the story is basically what you get and the audience should not attempt to glean any deep meaning although it’s rather a fun production to watch.
The characters are not so well thought out that it becomes completely clear to the theatergoer, including this critic, who is married and/or related to whom but given the lack of any need to give the show deep reflection, the impact is minimal.
“High Button Shoes” made it through 727 performances in its first and only Broadway run, and enjoyed a West End run in 1948. It was even televised on NBC in 1956 with Nanette Fabray reprising her role, Don Ameche as Papa Longstreet, and Hal March (host of “The $64,000 Question”) as Floy. City Center’s presentation is like a time capsule in addition to being a very well executed production. The 30-piece orchestra conducted by Rob Berman – front and center on stage – delivers a lush accompaniment to the proceedings, although none of the songs will ever be hummed as theatergoers stroll out of the theater. Finally, Allen Moyer’s salt water taffy pastel colored set, Ann Hould-Ward’s costumes, and Ken Billington’s lighting are picture perfect for a turn-of-the-last-century stroll down the Atlantic City boardwalk.
THE DETAILS
High Button Shoes
Limited Engagement Through May 12, 2019
New York City Center
131 W 55th Street
New York, N.Y. 10019
www.nycitycenter.org
(Photos: Accura Media Group)
Pages: 1 2
