Review: Rock 'n Rollicking MEMPHIS On Broadway!

How often does Broadway get a totally new, original musical?
Not very often -- not these days.
The economics of the situation now make it virtually cost-prohibitive.
So when a musical arrives in town with a new book and new music and fresh new talent and it's lively and relevant and meaningful while still being fun, well -- it's worth our attention.
Which is why we scurried up to Manhattan last week to see Memphis, Broadway's 2010 Tony Award winner.
And we were not disappointed. In fact, let me say it flat out: I actually enjoyed Memphis more that Jersey Boys. For one thing, Memphis has a better book. And, it has more dancing, a larger cast and a more engaging story.
Memphis advertises itself as "a musical that bursts off the stage with explosive dancing, irresistible songs and a thrilling tale of fame and forbidden love."
Said to be inspired by actual events,  Memphis really does burst off the stage and embrace the audience with a compelling tale and music to match.The first act in particular leaves the audience breathless. It's a grabber; there's no other way to put it.
In fact, not since Footloose has Broadway combined pop music and dancing with a socially relevant tale that springs from the popular culture of a certain time and place.
And yet it's not really a genre musical because it's appeal spans all age groups. Memphis isn't a serious as Rent nor as silly as Hairspray nor as cartoonish as that all-time classic, Bye Bye, Birdie.
Memphis is in it's own league.
But let's be clear about this. This isn't Les Miserables. You won't find grand, classic themes or the stuff of saga in Memphis. And regrettably, the second act doesn't measure up to the first. 
Yet. this tale about a white radio DJ who wants to change the world and a black club singer who is ready for her big break will reach you with laughter, soaring emotion and roof-raising rock 'n' roll. And it will touch your heart and soul.
Memphis features a Tony-winning book by Joe DiPietro (I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change) and a Tony-winning original score with music by Bon Jovi founding member David Bryan. Directing is Tony nominee Christopher Ashley (Xanadu), and choreography is by Sergio Trujillo (Jersey Boys). The cast stars Tony nominee Chad Kimball, Tony nominee Montego Glover, Derrick Baskin, J. Bernard Calloway, James Monroe Iglehart, Tony nominee Michael McGrath and Cass Morgan.
And one other thing: What a joy it is to see a fully integrated cast working together on Broadway to create a high-spirited musical tale about our nation, its people and the struggles we've faced and have (partially) overcome. This alone is worth the price of admission.
Go see Memphis!