THE HEADLINERS

CHERRY CREEK THEATRE: 5/5 – 5/21

 

L-R: Norrell Moore and Jeremy Rill

     The World Premiere of Jeffrey Neuman’s “The Headliners” brings us the story of the struggle of two very real Vaudeville stars who are trying to be their true authentic selves in the hostile social milieu of 1908 NYC.

     Neuman’s play was a finalist in the 2021 National Playwrights Conference at the Eugene O’Neill Theater Center.

 

     Norrell Moore is a whirlwind of fiery energy as Eva Tanguay. Belting out the stunning musical numbers in her delicious naughty, bawdy fashion, this diva has the audience eating out of her hand! As Eva, she has the dominant personality of a survivor and a conniver and will even go as far as fisticuffs with a heckling patron.

    Her final song “I Don’t Care” will take your breath away.

   Jeremy Rill is outstanding in his portrayal of Julian Eltinge, the best female impersonator of his time.

The scene near final curtain in which he sings in a black evening gown with elbow-length black gloves and white plumed fan, courtesy of costume designer Linda Morken, is stunning! Julian talks about his fear of getting beat up just walking to the theatre. His relationship with Eva is a "match made in headlines."

      Paul Jaquith as Walter provides intermittent comic moments performing his job of stage manager.

     Blurring the lines between the world of the stage and the unaccepting offstage world of bigotry towards anyone who does not conform, these characters “beard an unheard-of act of defiance.” (No spoilers!)  The struggle of these pioneers to come to terms with the inequalities of the day was ground-breaking in terms of drag performances today.

     Having cast the play impeccably, Director Nick Sugar paces it in such a way that the evening flies by.

     Tina Anderson’s scenic design gives us a vaudeville stage complete with crimson curtains and art deco lighting sconces.

     The music direction by David Nehls is remarkable. All the songs are SO good, you’ll wish there were a CD to purchase in the lobby.

      Emily A. Maddox’s lighting design shifts and enhances the moods dramatically.

   From Ms. Moore’s first frock made of dollar bills to the shimmering gold and ivory gown with ermine stole near show’s end, Linda Morken’s costume design dazzles the eye. 

     Max Silverman’s sound design rocks!

 

A tip of the hat to Susie Snodgrass and the board of Cherry Creek Theatre for fostering such great Art. It’s a gift. In this case, both artistically and socially! 

Get in line for tickets now. Soon this show may be SRO for the run!

 

For tickets call:   303-800-6578                or go online at cherrycreektheatre.org