By Lori Speiser.
Annie Get Your Gun is currently running at Westchester Broadway Theatre. This wonderful musical, with book by Dorothy and Herbert Fields, and music and lyrics by Irving Berlin, is based on the real life of Phoebe Ann Mosey who became known as Annie Oakley. The musical opened on Broadway in 1946 and was a hit in both New York and London. It was followed by a movie and a television show, along with many revivals. The 1999 Broadway revival was successfully revised by Peter Stone removing two songs which were insensitive to American Indians.
Westchester Broadway’s production, directed and choreographed by Richard Stafford, is a rousing and uplifting success. Bursting with well-loved songs including “There’s No Business Like Show Business”, “Doin’ What Comes Natura’lly”, and “Anything You Can Do” you will be smiling all night. The dancing to “Bad, Bad Man” is fun and bouncy; watch for the dancer (Sophie Lee Morris) turning round and round on one foot while in a split position! There are also some terrific large dance numbers including the tap dancing at the beginning of Act One, Scene 3.
The star of the show, Annie Oakley is marvelously and saucily portrayed by Devon Perry. From the moment she steps on stage her infectious smile captivates, and her beautiful voice is clear and strong.
Adam Kemmerer portrays Frank Butler with a strong masculine presence and a roguish smile. His rendition of “The Girl That I Marry” with his warm voice was excellent.
Kilty Reidy does a great job as the frustrated, yet kind manager Charlie Davenport. Sarah Cline is perfectly annoying as Dolly Tate, and the powerful presence of Buffalo Bill is effectively depicted by Gary Lynch. Marshall Factora as Chief Sitting Bull adds a comedic touch with some great facial expressions.
Annie Get Your Gun has great acting, outstanding dance numbers, beautiful vocals, with a charming love story tying it all together. There IS no business like show business and this show is a perfect example of great entertainment. Go and enjoy!
Running Time: Approximately 2 hours with one 30 minute intermission.
Annie Get Your Gun is playing at Westchester Broadway Theatre from September 14 – November 26, 2017 and returns December 28, 2017 – January 28, 2018. The theatre is located at One Broadway Plaza, Elmsford NY. For tickets call the box office at (914) 592-2222, or click here.