by Michael Buzzelli
Director and former Point Park University graduate, Daina Michelle Griffith, returns to her alma mater to gather an amazing cast of leading ladies to sing from Jerry Herman’s songbook in “Jerry’s Girls.”
“Jerry’s Girls” is a musical revue, or, to put in simpler terms, an extravaganza. It’s full of classic songs from Herman’s repertoire, highlighting Broadway favorites such as “Hello, Dolly!” “Mame,” and “La Cage Aux Folles.”
Reviews were everything is terrific are often very boring to read. Prepare to be lulled into a restful sleep as we heap mounds of praise on this amazing musical revue.
The cast is flawless.
The Leading Ladies included Jessica Carmona, Charlotte Jensen, Giavanna Marino, Julianna Ramos, Jamey Meske, Drew Dela Llana, Andrea Nalbandian, Daphne Riddle with ensemble members Camani Campbell, Lexi Casey, Andrea Robles and Bee Walker.
Carmona’s “Before the Parade Passes By” is a heartfelt moment. Her Super-Villain Team-Up with Charlotte Jensen for “Bosom Buddies” is a comedic high point in the show.
Meske belts out “I Am What I Am” from “La Cage Aux Folles” and nearly brought the house down. It was a beautiful moment of LGBTQ+ Pride (bringing joyous tears many audience members, including my seat mate, Lonnie the Theatre Lady).
Dela Llana performed a delightful rendition of “Gooch’s Song” from “Mame,” with a laugh out loud reveal at the end of the tune.
Riddle’s comic “Nelson” is a joy.
The ensemble moves with ease to some excellent choreography coordinated by Kristiann Menotiades. They dance beautifully to beautifully orchestrated Deana Muro and her all-star band which includes Doug Levine, RJ Heid, Paul Thompson, Kathleen Billie, George Hoydich and Dave Wingenbach.
The array of costumes by Claudia Brownlee is astonishing. “Jerry’s Girls.” The stunning clothes are fit for Broadway.
Emmaline Naud’s scenic and projection design is a whimsical addition to the show. The projections add context, flashing the title of the song and the name of the show it premiered in, saving patrons from flipping and fumbling around in their programs for context.
“Jerry’s Girls” is as big as Broadway but without the pocketbook breaking ticket prices.
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“Jerry’s Girls” runs until February 23 at the Point Park Playhouse’s Highmark Theatre, 350 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. For more information, click here.
