by Ken Ludwig, George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin
Signature Theatre 2017
Director: Matthew Gardiner; Choreographer: Denis Jones; Scenic Design: Paul DePoo; Costume Design: Tristan Raines; Lighting Design: Jason Lyons; Sound Design: Lane Elms
“Matthew Gardiner’s production of this 1992 Tony-winner, adapted from a 1930 musical, completely resonates in 2017… Way back in 1991, Susan Stroman choreographed the musical’s pre-Broadway tryout at D.C.’s National Theatre. She was slated to direct a New York-bound production at L.A.’s Ahmanson Theatre, but that production has been mysteriously postponed. Should the producers reconsider, Gardiner’s production does indeed have rhythm, and is raring to go in Arlington, Deadrock, or the Great White Way beyond.” Washington City Paper
“Every update and fresh choice Gardiner and the company make only pumps the musical up with even more pizzazz, wit, and charm.” DCTheatreScene
“Signature's production, directed by whiz-bang in-house star Matthew Gardiner, offers up some heady demonstrations of tap, courtesy of choreographer Denis Jones, and there's even one heavenly number in which the ensemble wittily takes up washboards, saws, hooch jugs and emery boards to keep the beat.”- Peter Marks, Washington Post