The Bushnell, Hartford, CT
through Janaury 13, 2013
by Eric Sutter
Ironically, Elvis' 78th birthday coincided with the opening
night of the Broadway musical "Million Dollar Quartet" at The
Bushnell.
Hartford is stung with a smash rock n' roll revival show
that re-enacts the date of December 4, 1956 when four alumni of Sun Records met
in Sam Phillips Sun Studio for an impromptu jam. All the early rock n' roll
moves are presented as the company sings "Blue Suede Shoes." The rock
n' roll beat, stand-up bass twirls and swiveled hips bring back the glory of
the sound.
Benjamin Goddard plays a "Real Wild Child" as
Jerry Lee Lewis who pounds the keys and creates theatrical drama on piano.
James Barry as Carl Perkins proves to be an unruly presence with guitar swagger
performing snatches of "Matchbox" and "Who Do You Love." A
unique Johnny Cash persona is portrayed by David Elkins whose deep bass voice
sings hits "Folsom Prison" and "I Walk The Line."
Then there's Elvis. Billy Woodward's Elivis is pure
charisma, crooning both softly on "Memories Are Made Of This" and
frenzied on "That's All Right Mama." Woodward has the Elvis magic,
moves, and mannerisms. The greatness of the young Elvis style is precise. In a
quieter moment, he sings the gospel song "Peace In The Valley" in
harmony with the entire company.
Putting this "fab four" together is Vince Nappo as
an impressive Sam Phillips with his hard driving style and banter.
"Let's Have A Party" really rocks the Bushnell
house and lights the fuse for fun. As Carl Perkins cranks out guitar riffs,
Elvis swivels and slides to the floor. "Great Balls Of Fire" finds
the audience giving into the fun spirit. The piano sounds vibrant with energy
that transfers from stage to audience. Elvis sneers "Hound Dog" for
smiles galore. Each performer has his turn in the spotlight and together. The
show is on fast pace, to say the least. The cast encores with a must see finale
of "Whole Lot Of Shakin' Goin' On.
