If you’re in need of a night that will lift your spirits, make your heart race, and leave you with a smile that refuses to fade, look no further than the spectacular musical comedy “Crazy for You” currently gracing the West End. This production is more than just a show; it’s a whirlwind of pure, irresistible fun that’s sure to bring you to your feet.
This large-scale musical extravaganza, playing at London’s Gillian Lynne Theatre until January 2024, is a musical theater lover’s dream come true. With a cast of 34 incredibly talented performers, led by the electrifying Charlie Stemp, the magnetic Carly Anderson, and the outrageously comic Tom Edden, you’re in for a night of unforgettable entertainment.
At the heart of Crazy for You are the glorious Gershwin melodies, and the show is a joyful celebration of musical theater at its finest. Classics like “Someone to Watch Over Me,” “I Got Rhythm,” and “They Can’t Take That Away from Me” are performed with such passion and energy that you’ll be humming them long after the final curtain falls.
One of the standout features of this production is the choreography by Susan Stroman, a multi-Tony® and Olivier award winner. Her work in Crazy for You is nothing short of genius, as it blows the roof off the theater and consistently wins standing ovations. From tap routines that will leave you in awe to dance sequences that fill the stage with life, Stroman’s choreography is a true highlight.
The plot of Crazy for You is a delightful blend of humor and romance. It follows the story of Bobby Child, a theatre-mad banker torn between his show-business dreams and the family bank business. He finds himself reluctantly heading to Deadrock, Nevada, with the task of foreclosing on a theatre’s mortgage. However, things take an unexpected turn when he falls head over heels for Polly, the daughter of the theater owner.
Desperate to prove his good faith and win Polly’s heart, Bobby decides to put on a show in Deadrock. He enlists the help of dancers from the glamorous Zangler Follies in New York City, setting the stage for a series of hilarious and heartwarming events. As the story unfolds, you’ll find yourself rooting for Bobby, Polly, and the entire cast of characters.
The production’s book, written by Ken Ludwig, is riotously entertaining and complements the Gershwin melodies perfectly. The combination of a well-crafted storyline and the timeless music of the Gershwin brothers ensures that Crazy for You is a complete delight from start to finish.
The sheer scale of this production is awe-inspiring, with 17 orchestra members bringing the music to life and a cast of 34 that fills the stage with energy and talent. It’s a testament to the dedication and passion of the entire team that Crazy for You has received critical acclaim and accolades, including Tony® and Olivier Awards for Best Musical.
Directed and choreographed by Susan Stroman, the spectacular production has transferred from a sell-out season at the Chichester Festival Theatre. The West End audiences have been lucky to witness the brilliance of Charlie Stemp, the Olivier-nominated star of “Half a Sixpence” and “Mary Poppins,” as Bobby. Carly Anderson, known for her role in “Wicked,” brings a magnetic presence to the character of Polly. Meanwhile, Tom Edden, a Drama Desk Award winner, delivers an outrageously comic performance as Bela Zangler.
The audience reaction to Crazy for You has been nothing short of ecstatic. The Guardian calls it “a divine production that will leave you giddy,” while the Daily Telegraph describes it as “truly spellbinding.” Arifa Akbar of The Guardian even goes so far as to label Charlie Stemp as “Britain’s musicals megastar.”
With everything in this spellbinding show exuding joy, The Independent sums it up perfectly by stating, “Quite simply, Crazy for You is a complete delight that leaves its audience giddy.” Crazy for You doesn’t just bring the audience to its feet; it keeps them there, entranced by the genius choreography and the infectious enthusiasm of the cast.
For those looking to experience the magic of Crazy for You, tickets are available starting at just £15. The show runs for a total of 2 hours and 45 minutes, including an interval, providing a perfect evening of entertainment. You can find the Gillian Lynne Theatre at 166 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5PW.
In a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming, Crazy for You is a beacon of joy, laughter, and love. It’s a reminder that the power of music, dance, and the human spirit can banish the cares of the world, if only for a few hours. So, if you’re ready to experience a night of pure, irresistible fun, don’t miss the chance to see Crazy for You in the West End. It’s a theatrical experience that will leave you spellbound and utterly crazy for this enchanting show.
