An American in Paris seduces Broadway
The Academy Award-winning movie An American in Paris graced the silver screen with Gene Kelly in 1951. Just last year, the musical play stole the hearts of Broadway. Celebrating one year on the Manhattan marquee circuit on April 12, An American in Paris has secured four Tony Awards and makes audiences swoon from opening act to curtain call.
Christopher Wheeldon makes his directorial debut in the story of American soldier Jerry Mulligan, who stays in Paris after World War II and meets a mysterious French girl, Lise Dassin, who dreams of landing the role of a principal ballerina. Each character, along with a Jewish pianist and French singer, yearn for a new beginning in the aftermath of war.
Although the story took place at the end of World War II and is relatable to older generations, the younger generation can also relate to the dream of moving to Europe for art, following their dreams and falling in love.
The musical originally starred Robert Fairchild as Jerry Mulligan, Leanne Cope as Lise Dassin, Max Von Essen as Henri Baurel and Brandon Uranowitz as Adam Hochberg. Fairchild is a phenomenal dancer, but performed his last show on March 13. Although it was sad to see him go, the show was excited to welcome Garen Scribner, who made his Broadway debut with An American in Paris as Fairchild’s alternate.
Cope is the trifecta when it comes to dancing, singing and acting with her mile-wide smile and bright big eyes that illuminated every corner of the theater. She is as exquisite as the rest of the ballet, which incorporates touches of lyrical in effortless, weightless movements.
Perhaps the most eye-catching was the stunningly detailed set with several changes, creating a very realistic Parisian setting. Believable French accents and lovely costumes added to the toe-tapping tunes and light, quick-witted comedy, which left the audience feeling just as involved and enthralled as the actors are with their characters. The audience was transfixed on Lise’s petite yet enormously loving persona when she passionately dances, especially with Jerry, even though she is engaged to Henri. The chemistry between Fairchild and Cope was undeniable, especially during their chill-inducing pas de deux.
Jerry, Adam and Henri, “The Three Musketeers,” are charming in their own way where you want Lise to end up with all or none of them: the American artist, the Jewish composer and the aspiring French singer/dancer.
When Lise lands the role in a ballet, she realizes the only way she can dance with passion is if she imagines Jerry. It is perhaps in this moment where Lise realizes what her heart truly wants.
Initially a very dark composer, Adam realizes that there is enough darkness in the world and he needs to use his talents to bring hope. He gracefully bows out of courting Lise and tells her to follow her heart. As the narrator of the show, he tells the audience, “I got the girl, but I put her in the music where she belongs,” while Lise tells Adam, “You are my American in Paris.”
It is a true Cinderella moment when Lise runs into Jerry’s arms by the river where they spent so much of their time together. The blending of classic Gershwin Jazz melodies with the ballet itself, especially during the final reprise of An American in Paris theme as Jerry and Lise embrace in a passionate kiss, with the signature Gerswhin blue note, a notable favorite of many, sending them off staring into the stars.
For more about An American In Paris, see Je T’aime, Paris.
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