Where’s Charley? by George Abbott and Frank Loesser at City Center Encores!
Where’s Charley? at City Center Encores!
New York City, March 16-20, 2011
Based on Brandon Thomas’ Charley's Aunt
Book by George Abbott
Music and Lyrics by Frank Loesser
Cast:
Sebastian Arcelus, Jeff Brooks, Rebecca Luker,
Dakin Matthews, Rob McClure, Howard McGillin,
Jill Paice, Lauren Worsham
Directed by John Doyle
Sometimes it can be the simplest gesture that tips off an audience they’re in for a theatrical treat. In the recent City Center Encores! revival of Where’s Charley? the clue took place in the opening quartet in which two young couples alternated in duet. When they weren’t singing, the performers pulled their chests up high, linked arms and bounced subtly and elegantly on their toes in time to the music. Here was imaginative choreography where an understated move (think Fosse’s hat-tilt) said everything! Here were singers who could dance! With just one exception, the entire performance lived up to its early promise of stylish fun.

