While not a perfect show, "George M!" is a tribute to one of Broadway's greatest entertainers. Singer, song writer, actor and perhaps the most influential individual of the early part of the 20th century, George M. Cohan remains a legend today. It's not just because of the James Cagney movie this contributed to the Great American Songbook. Joel Grey repeats his stage role with Bernadette Peters in that production, join Jack Cassidy and Nanette Fabray as their parents who created an act that traveled the country before Cohan split off on his own to become a legend in his own lifetime. Red Buttons as a famous producer and Blythe Danner as Cohan's future wife are also wonderful.
This music his ambition, some of his actions to get ahead but most of all the growth which are many. It is the music that you remember here, with a dramatic plot that you seen in many stage and movie biographies. The script is filled with clichés and weak in structure, but Grey really delivers the goods, showing an energy that really captures the essence of Cohan was. Those who only know Cohan through Cagney's Oscar winning performance will see a different side of Cohan here. Long overdue for a revival, this would need to have a stronger book to be a success today, but with the right star, it could be a huge hit.
This music his ambition, some of his actions to get ahead but most of all the growth which are many. It is the music that you remember here, with a dramatic plot that you seen in many stage and movie biographies. The script is filled with clichés and weak in structure, but Grey really delivers the goods, showing an energy that really captures the essence of Cohan was. Those who only know Cohan through Cagney's Oscar winning performance will see a different side of Cohan here. Long overdue for a revival, this would need to have a stronger book to be a success today, but with the right star, it could be a huge hit.