An American In Paris gloriously glides on to the West End stage with this undeniable five star show
The Dominion Theatre has been around since she 1920’s (undergoing major renovation in 2014), originally showing screenings of films, then as a live concert venue in the 70’s and 80’s for bands like David Bowie and Bonjovi. Since the late 1980’s, the Dominion has been a Musical Theatre venue and now the UK premiere of An American In Paris dances onto its stage.
An American In Paris is based on the Oscar winning film, with musical numbers by George and Ira Gershwin including I Got Rhythm and ‘S Wonderful. It tells the story of a young American soldier, living in Paris at the end of the Second World War. He falls in love with a beautiful Parisian ballet dancer and they have an intense, yet secret relationship. When Jerry Mulligan realises that the woman he has fallen in love with is his best friends new fiancé, friendships are put to the test and Lise must choose the life she wants to live, out of either happiness or duty.
There aren’t enough adjectives in the world to describe An American In Paris. It’s glorious and groundbreaking set design left me unsure what was sometimes projection or actual set pieces. The way the stage moves around is just as beautiful to watch as the dancing and feels like, it too, has been choreographed.
Robert Fairchild gives a stunning performance as Jerry Mulligan and glides around the stage, perfectly pairing his partner Leanne Cope who steals the show as Lise. She floats around the stage in the most beautiful dance sequences and oozes charisma and charm.
Zoe Rainey is wonderful as Milo Davenport and sings like a dream. Jane Asher brings an air of sophistication to the show as Madame Baurel and Haydn Oakley is adorable as the awkward Henri Baurel.
Ive never really been a lover of dance and usually opt for more jazz hands type shows. However, An American In Paris has opened my eyes to how beautifully a story can be told through the form of dance and I already want to go back and see this modern day masterpiece again.
An American In Paris is a feast for the eyes and ears. If you don’t think it sounds like your cup of tea (like I did) I can’t urge you enough to give it a try. ‘S Wonderful.
Reviewed by West End Wilma
Photo: Tristram Kenton
An American In Paris is playing at the Dominion Theatre until 30 September 2017. Book tickets
