A Summertime Musical Treat

By Frank Furnari, New Rep Reviewer

I entered the theatre for New Rep’s production of The World Goes ‘Round not in the best of moods. After two hours, I left smiling and humming a few good songs. This is the sign of a good summertime musical revue.

The World Goes ‘Round was conceived in 1991 as a revue of the work of John Kander and Fred Ebb who wrote wonderful musicals such as Cabaret and Chicago as well as recently premiered works, Curtains and The Scottsboro Boys. Thankfully, this work, conceived by Susan Stroman, Scott Ellis, and David Thompson did not seek to insert a narrator or add scenes of dialogue to try string together songs. They simply let the songs speak for themselves and tell their own story. What they weave together is an enjoyable night of many tunes you know as well as some that you may not.

New Rep favorites Leigh Barrett and Aimee Doherty are a joy to watch and hear sing this great music – their performance of Class is stellar – it’s a joy to see them perform. In addition Shannon Lee Jones, David Costa, and De’Lon Grant – all of whom have appeared in New Rep productions – deliver solid performances. Ilyse Robbin’s direction is uneven with some truly outstanding and greatly conceived moments, as well as a few times when the actors seem to lack direction. The funnier moments, especially the numbers Coffee, Sara Lee, and Class are the standout numbers of the show and make the evening a memorable one. I wonder if the show itself would be tighter if a few numbers were eliminated and it be made into a slightly shorter intermission-less piece. These are simply minor qualms to an overall enjoyable piece.

The set is, simple art deco inspired, and provides the actors lots of room to shine. The orchestra is comprised of four players – keyboard, wind, string bass, and percussion. They are located on stage in what reminded me of a big band look and provide good sounding accompaniment.

The show was a great way to end New Rep’s year. It is was a very enjoyable evening and is highly recommended for Fans of Kander and Ebb.