ENTERTAINMENT
Broadway's '42nd Street': A Dazzling Display of Tap Dance and Hope

Running until September 14 at the Charlotte Theater, '42nd Street' is set against the backdrop of 1930s New York during the Great Depression. It's a classic show musical renowned for its stage design and tap dance performances, featuring a grand ensemble and dazzling choreography.
As expected from a production featuring famous actors, the theater buzzed with anticipation as showtime approached. When the stage lights illuminated, around 30 performers greeted the audience with precisely choreographed tap dance routines set to lively music.

The protagonist of '42nd Street' is Peggy Sawyer, an unknown chorus girl. Driven by her dreams, Peggy joins the troupe, captivating the audience with her exceptional tap dance solos, acting skills, and charming interactions with the cast even before officially joining the ensemble.
Remarkably, Peggy's tap dance prowess is matched by the 30-member ensemble, who deliver over five tap dance sequences throughout the show. While tap dance is the main attraction, the ensemble also incorporates ballet, creating synchronized performances. Ingeniously, over ten large mirrors descend from the ceiling, allowing the audience to experience the ensemble's dance from a unique perspective.
The production is filled with warmth and kindness. The 30 ensemble members welcome Peggy with open arms, without a hint of jealousy or resentment towards her talent. Although Dorothy Brock, initially set to be the lead, feels envious of Peggy, she eventually offers her detailed advice, maintaining a family-friendly atmosphere suitable for audiences aged 8 and above.

Peggy Sawyer, the protagonist, is a 'chorus girl' with impressive tap dance skills. Julian Marsh tells her she must perform six songs and ten dance numbers. However, it is Dorothy Brock who showcases her vocal talent three times, while Peggy only participates in two choruses and two brief solos, making it challenging to fully appreciate her singing abilities.
Even in the visually and audibly delightful dance sequences, some details were lacking. Despite efforts to enhance the experience with vibrant lighting and large props, some tap dance routines extended for nearly a minute without variation. Adding interjections like "Ha!" could have left a more lasting impression on the audience.

By Dayeon Jeong, TenAsia Reporter light@tenasia.co.kr