The Muny closes their 106th season with star-studded “Anything Goes”

Cole Porter’s classic musical “Anything Goes” opened on Broadway in 1934. In 1988 and 2011 it won the Tony Award for “Best Revival of a Musical”. The book of the musical has been revamped a few times, but the basic story remains the same: a whacky adventure aboard the SS American on its way to England. It involves star-crossed lovers (of course) who come together, fall apart, and eventually come together; gangsters on the run from the law; and a very cute dog. But really, the plot is irrelevant, this is a show all about the music and the dancing.

The Muny first presented “Anything Goes” in 1940 and again in 1999. It is indeed a timeless classic that endures mainly because of an incredible score that includes the title song, “Anything Goes”, “I Get a Kick Out of You”, “It’s De-Lovely” and other recognizable hits. Music Director, Ben Whiteley, leads a pitch perfect orchestra that, for my money, is the true star of the show. The overture had me smiling from ear to ear. Choreographer Jared Grimes creates epic dance numbers reminiscent of any MGM musical. Favorites for me are the Act One closing number of the title song and, in Act Two, “Blow, Gabriel, Blow”.

There is some star studded singing in this ocean crossing romp as well. Jeanna de Waal as Reno Sweeney does Ethel Merman (who originated the role on Broadway) proud and owns the audience in her second act nightclub/evangelist number “Blow, Gabriel, Blow”. Kimberly Immanuel plays Hope Harcourt, one of the star-crossed lovers. Her angelic voice is stunning in her duets with Jay Armstrong Johnson as Billy Crocker and is heartbreaking in her Act Two solo “Goodbye, Little Dream, Goodbye”. Mr. Johnson balances the roles of romantic lead and silly undercover gangster well, though his voice gets a little pitchy with some of the higher notes.

Act One gets off to a slow start, gorgeous overture notwithstanding, but ends on a wonderful high note with the company’s rendition of “Anything Goes”. Act Two works much better and the comedy and farcical material really shine here. Tony nominee Kevin Chamberlain chews the scenery quite a bit but wins over the crowd when asked “what is there to live for?” and replies “gooey butter cake”. Once the tap dancing starts, and these dancers are fantastic, the show really hums along. It’s a goofy funfest that closes The Muny season well.

“Anything Goes” runs through August 25th at The Muny. For tickets and information go to The Muny website.