<bt>Grab your tap shoes. Hotshot director Julian Marsh is directing another musical, this time “42nd Street “. In post-Depression New York, jobs are tight, but that doesn't quell the hopes of a young, small-town girl. Peggy Sawyer arrives for her audition an hour late, yet still manages to get a job due to her undeniable talent. The rehearsals start off with difficulties, and the cast isn't prepared when Dorothy Brock, the lead actress, breaks her ankle. It seems like the show will not go on, unless they find a starlet with natural talent.
Hayfield Secondary has a talented cast in this tap-dancing musical. Almost everyone in the cast wears tap shoes, and the big dance scenes work wonderfully, thanks to their high energy level.
Yasir Latifi's commanding stage presence in the role of Julian Marsh is evident throughout the show, and his acting and strong vocals make him the focal point of any scene. Laura Cammarata always draws laughs with her obnoxious tantrums as the past-her-prime actress, Dorothy Brock. Erica Smith's performance as the small-town girl, Peggy Sawyer, makes the audience smile. Cammarata and Smith also charm the audience with their beautiful voices.
Kristen Garaffo, as Anytime Annie, is a standout with her melodic voice and crisp dance moves. Garaffo's playful character shines through any scene and is a big hit in the duet "Shuffle Off to Buffalo," where she and fellow comedian Freddy Hall leave the audience in stitches. Hall, playing writer Bert Barry, always seems to get a laugh with his quirky facial expressions and goofy antics. Nathan Shropshire, as Andy Lee, wows the audience with his smooth tap-dancing and fluid movements.
Sound designer Greg Channon ensures that every line is heard loud and clear. Light designer Sarah Albright uses shadows and spotlights very effectively within the show.
Despite physically demanding dance numbers, the cast's drive to entertain the audience always prevails.
With impressive talent, amazing dance numbers, and a top-notch technical crew, "42nd Street" is a treat. This outstanding show turns the Hayfield Auditorium on Telegraph Road into Fairfax's own 42nd Street.