A creative adaptation from the 1992 movie, Honeymoon in Vegas The Broadway Musical was lively, fast-paced, funny and literally "electric." I'm always a little skeptical when going to see a screen to stage production, but, this time, I was pleasantly surprised.
I will be totally honest and tell you that my real motivation in purchasing tickets to this show, currently in previews as of November 18th, was the star power and my own personal affinity for Tony Danza. Yes, I was swayed by my youthful crush on Mr. Danza from his "Who's the Boss" and "Taxi" days. And, let me assure you, I enjoyed every moment of his performance as Tommy Korman, the powerful Vegas gambler.
The storyline, of course remains the same, as Jack Singer, played by Rob McClure, the commitment phobic boyfriend, finally agrees to take the plunge into marrying his long-time girlfriend, Betsey Nolan (Brynn McNalley) with a spur of the moment trip to Vegas to elope. Smitten with Betsey, who bears a striking resemblance to his deceased wife, Tommy Korman (Tony Danza), orchestrates a rigged poker game, in order to have Jack pay for his losses with his fiancé, Betsey.
And so the story goes with its ups and downs (literally!) as Jack attempts to recapture his bride to be away from the smooth talking Korman.
I will be totally honest and tell you that my real motivation in purchasing tickets to this show, currently in previews as of November 18th, was the star power and my own personal affinity for Tony Danza. Yes, I was swayed by my youthful crush on Mr. Danza from his "Who's the Boss" and "Taxi" days. And, let me assure you, I enjoyed every moment of his performance as Tommy Korman, the powerful Vegas gambler.
The storyline, of course remains the same, as Jack Singer, played by Rob McClure, the commitment phobic boyfriend, finally agrees to take the plunge into marrying his long-time girlfriend, Betsey Nolan (Brynn McNalley) with a spur of the moment trip to Vegas to elope. Smitten with Betsey, who bears a striking resemblance to his deceased wife, Tommy Korman (Tony Danza), orchestrates a rigged poker game, in order to have Jack pay for his losses with his fiancé, Betsey.
And so the story goes with its ups and downs (literally!) as Jack attempts to recapture his bride to be away from the smooth talking Korman.
Travelin' Cousins Elisa and Tanya at preview of Honeymoon in Vegas
Well-written with many of the same funny lines and humorous dialog as the original film, Andrew Bergman, who wrote both the screenplay and the play, succeeds in creating a witty, funny and entertaining story.
This is one of the few shows on Broadway right now that is a good choice for kids as well. I brought my two daughters (8 and 10) to see this along with my "Travelin' Cousin" Tanya and her son and daughter (16 and 13). With its bright and colorful stage design, resounding and upbeat music by Tony-winner Jason Robert Brown and slapstick comedic affects, my kids were laughing throughout the production. No foul language either, which was an added bonus!
This is one of the few shows on Broadway right now that is a good choice for kids as well. I brought my two daughters (8 and 10) to see this along with my "Travelin' Cousin" Tanya and her son and daughter (16 and 13). With its bright and colorful stage design, resounding and upbeat music by Tony-winner Jason Robert Brown and slapstick comedic affects, my kids were laughing throughout the production. No foul language either, which was an added bonus!
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My favorite scene was none other than the Flying Elvis sequence and its inventive airplane backdrop and lively dance number. Not to mention the "electrifying" suits!
Story - Check; Music - Check. Now, let's talk about the performances. The cast was a tight-knit group of performers who brought this story to life with dance and larger than life characterizations and chemistry.
What a joy for me to see Mr. Danza live on stage. He was just delightful in his tough, yet charming role. Who knew he had such a nice singing voice! He even surprised me with his soft-shoe tap dancing! The only negative could arguably be his playing the "bad guy" with his good looks and charming demeanor, but then again, I'm a bit prejudice! To me, he's still the boss, even on Broadway!
Mr. McClure was endearing as the neurotic, protagonist switching off between humor, and song and dance, playing opposite Ms. O'Malley, whose voice was alluring and performance engaging.
A definite thumbs up for a high-flying good time!
Story - Check; Music - Check. Now, let's talk about the performances. The cast was a tight-knit group of performers who brought this story to life with dance and larger than life characterizations and chemistry.
What a joy for me to see Mr. Danza live on stage. He was just delightful in his tough, yet charming role. Who knew he had such a nice singing voice! He even surprised me with his soft-shoe tap dancing! The only negative could arguably be his playing the "bad guy" with his good looks and charming demeanor, but then again, I'm a bit prejudice! To me, he's still the boss, even on Broadway!
Mr. McClure was endearing as the neurotic, protagonist switching off between humor, and song and dance, playing opposite Ms. O'Malley, whose voice was alluring and performance engaging.
A definite thumbs up for a high-flying good time!
 Waiting for the cast to exit |  Chatting with Rob McClure (Jack Singer) |  Getting an autograph from Brynn O'Malley (Betsey Nolan) |
With "the Boss" Tony Danza
Now, for me, the highlight for all of my Broadway excursions is waiting by the stage door for the cast to exit. My kids cannot imagine seeing a show without this exciting experience to top off the evening. So, off we went to wait...Right up in front we managed to get autographs from the show's three leads, as well as snap some pictures with them!
The Cousins Gang after the show
It was quite obvious that these folks love what they do and have such an abounding appreciation for their fans. That's why I love Broadway so much and Honeymoon in Vegas is just one more for my long list of memorable shows!
- Elisa
- Elisa
For Your Reference
Honeymoon in Vegas, The New Broadway Musical
Nederlander Theatre
208 West 41st Street
New York, NY
www.honeymoonbroadway.com
Opening Night: January 15, 2015
Honeymoon in Vegas, The New Broadway Musical
Nederlander Theatre
208 West 41st Street
New York, NY
www.honeymoonbroadway.com
Opening Night: January 15, 2015
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