By Kristen Weyer.
We’ve all been through a lot recently. Ok, let’s be honest, we’re still going through a lot, and if you’re anything like me, you’re craving an escape from it all. I keep hearing from people that what they’re searching for right now is a distraction, a chance to disappear for a few moments, to someplace else. Gateway offers you this chance with Million Dollar Quartet, now running until August 21st. Come to Bellport and escape back in time to Memphis, Tennessee on a historic night in 1956. Written by Colin Escott and Floyd Mutrux, and directed here by Tim Seib, Million Dollar Quartet is two hours of good fun, and great music.
What do Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis all have in common? Besides being rock n’ roll legends of course. The answer is Sam Phillips and Sun Records. All four of these iconic musicians were discovered and launched into stardom by Sam and his label. Million Dollar Quartet centers on this connection, focusing on one very special evening where the four stars were gathered together for an impromptu recording session at Sun Records.
The show is narrated by Sam Phillips, played here with esteem by Sean Casey Flanagan, who spends half his time talking with the characters and the other half with the audience. You’ll be filled in on the history of each star and how they each got their start at Sun, all the while being serenaded and entertained by the plethora of hits that make up this impressive score. All of these fabulous actors not only sing and portray their characters, but they are also the “band”, playing the various instruments for you live on stage; the talent is impressive! Steven Lasiter does not disappoint as Johnny Cash, with an excellent low register and steady cadence. He hits the notes you want to hear while performing such classics as “Folsom Prison Blues”, “I Walk the Line” and “Ghost Riders”. Carl Perkins is nicely portrayed by Nathan Burke with excellent vocals and believable emotions, he entertains with “Blue Suede Shoes” and “See You Later Alligator!” (If you happen to be one of the many people operating under the false impression that “Blue Suede Shoes” is an Elvis Presley song, this misapprehension is addressed during the show and is very interesting!) The King himself, Elvis Presley, is charmingly played by the talented Jacob Barton. Complete with signature dance moves and phrases, without being over-the-top or painful, his impersonation is a pleasant change from others you may have seen. Barton nails the iconic hits including “That’s All Right” and “Hound Dog”. The irrepressible Jerry Lee Lewis is portrayed with boundless energy by Trevor Dorner. His fast-talking, high octane, irreverent personification adds humor and energy to every interaction his character has. You’d be hard pressed to not be entertained during his numbers such as “Great Balls of Fire” and “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On”. Rounding out the cast is the lovely and talented Taylor Kraft as Dyanne, Elvis’ girlfriend; Justin Bendel, an incredible bassist as Brother Jay; and the impressive Mike Lucchetti as Fluke, on the drums.
While each of these actors are worth seeing on their own merits, all together they accomplish a special feat. They transport the audience back in time to experience the musical magic of four magnificent artists. Just for a little while, the cares and worries of the present can slip away, and we can revel in the escape, and really what more could we ask for?
Running Time: Approximately 2 hours, as well as a 15 minute intermission.
Million Dollar Quartet is playing at The Gateway Playhouse until August 21st, 2021. For tickets and information click here.