Review by Katrina “Kat” Reynolds
ANYTHING GOES presented by The Carnegie through March 8th. I attended the opening Sunday matinee performance.
The Cast. Photo by Mikki Schaffner.
I’m going to let you in on a little secret: I am a sucker for tap dance. Had I been allowed to take tap at the same time I was Irish dancing competitively, I don’t think there would have been any stopping me. So when it was announced that The Carnegie would again partner with University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music to produce Cole Porter’s Anything Goes, I knew I was all in. This screwball comedy is rife with mistaken identities, romance, and – of course – dancing!
Director Eric Byrd expertly navigates his talented cast’s paths across a magnificent set designed by Tyler Gabbard. Choreographer Jessica Harris fully understands the highs and lows of movement and knows exactly when to crescendo. Group numbers in particular are beautifully staged and executed. Particular shoutout to Costume Designer Clara Jean Kelly for some of the best period costumes seen on a Cincinnati-area stage. To have found the perfect balance between functional (dancer-wise) and aesthetically pleasing is a tall order and she exceeds expectations. P.S. I want to commission Ms. Kelly to make one of the gorgeous dresses the Angels and Hope wear in both the “De-Lovely” and final scenes. Stun-ning!
This strong ensemble of CCM students boasts nearly immeasurable levels of talent. Josh Devine is rock solid as Billy Crocker, the lovesick would-be Wall Street employee. Monique Churchill is effervescent as Hope Harcourt, the target of Billy’s affections. Dominic Carroll’s handle on maintaining correct and steady dialects is beyond impressive – but as much as I appreciated the subtleties of his characterization of Moonface Martin, this is a show where bigger is better. Joey Baciocco is sensational as Lord Evelyn Oakleigh: flawless accent, wonderful physicality, and vocal chops to boot! Last but certainly not least we have Indya Lincicome as Reno Sweeney. My goodness, Ms. Lincicome is a powerhouse performer with a prowess to deliver beyond her years! Keep your eyes on this one, folx: we shall be seeing her name in lights.
With something for everyone, Anything Goes is one of those feel-good shows guaranteed to put a smile on your face and a pep in your step. Whether you come for the timeless Cole Porter score, the upbeat dancing, or just for the laughs you will have a good time on the S.S. American.
Click here for more information about the production.
Behind the Curtain Cincinnati 