Review: JOHNNY MANHATTAN at Meadow Brook Theatre is a new musical filled with heart and soul headed for Broadway!

Meadow Brook Theatre kicked off their 2017-2018 season with the Broadway preview of Johnny Manhattan, a new musical, that brings audiences back to a nightclub in New York City in 1958 filled with socialites and glamourous showgirls. The musical world premiere is a nightclub owner throwing a party with his close friends as the drinks are poured and secrets are uncovered.

Johnny Manhattan, although being brand new, is a show that any type of theatregoer can enjoy! With books and lyrics by Tony Award winner Robert Lorick and music by Michigan native Dan Goggin, the show transports the audience back to the heyday of 1950s nightclub scene that the music and language will easily make them reminisce or enjoy for the first time what life was like back then. The songs in this production will have the audience laughing along or getting sentimental with the performers.

The performers in Johnny Manhattan do an exceptional job in their performances throughout the show including Jim Ballard in the title role. Ballard carries a heavy weight on his shoulders, but does not falter in performance. He has a smooth singing voice and strong stage presence. Anne Brummel is fantastic as Rosie. Her singing is one of the standout voices of the show, especially during "I'll Sing Your Favorite Song." Ruth Pferdehirt is wonderful throughout the whole show, especially with her comedic timing. Her song "Mister Producer" is cheeky, funny, and a joy to experience. Finally, Scott Willis does a brilliant number with Janet Caine and AlissaBeth Morton, but he is the true highlight of it with his energetic dancing and joyful singing during "I Don't Do That Anymore."

Johnny Manhattan is a show filled with heart, soul, and love. Plus, how often does the Michigan theatre community get a chance to experience a Broadway preview? Be part of history! Take a chance and experience this amazing opportunity to see Johnny Manhattan, a new musical, before it heads to great white way!

Johnny Manhattan is currently running now through September 24th at Meadow Brook Theatre. For more information or tickets, please visit www.mbtheatre.com.

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