Going to the theater can be more than just a night of diversion. The National Tour of Some Like It Hot stopped at Dr. Phillips Center in Orlando and the electric performance captivated the audience. While some might have known the story from the classic movie, this interpretation has a character that kept everyone’s eyes glued to the stage.
For those unfamiliar with the storyline, two Chicago musicians, who witness a mob murder, go on the run. In effort to hide their identity, they pose as women and join an all-women band. As they journey to California, their quest to escape to Mexico changes its purpose. From discovering their true self to finding love, the characters’ evolution is as great as the miles traveled.
While the storyline is compelling, there is one character that is not even listed on the Playbill which is integral to bringing all the storylines together. The choreography of Some Like It Hot is clearly a highlight of this production. From quick moving tap numbers to intricate ensemble pieces, the movement across the stage captures the sweeping story visually.
Dance is often a piece of a musical, but Some Like It Hot’s dance numbers are an integral part of the storyline. From jubilant moments to more poignant times, the ensemble traverses the stage It is more than the tap dancing two-step number at the beginning of the show.
The dance numbers are the heartbeat that connects all the stories together. It is the underlying rhythm that connects all the characters.
Overall, the National Touring production has a talented ensemble that connects with the audience in every number. From Sugar (Leandra Ellis-Gaston) learning to believe in herself to Jerry (Darien Crago) embracing his life as Daphne, the endearing qualities of those characters in the quiet moments capture the audience’s rapt attention.
Even though the vibrant, exuberant dance numbers fill the stage with joy, it is the subtle, contemplative numbers that make a lasting impression. From Joe turning the corner to push aside his manipulative ways for a real connection to Osgood reminiscing about his childhood, it makes a dinner connection beyond the melody and poignant lyrics. That moment of reflection is what live theater does best. It makes the audience recall the performance long after the curtain closes.
While Sugar, Jerry/Daphne, and Joe/Josphine have the biggest numbers in the show, it is the supporting cast that make this musical such an memorable performance. Sweet Sue (Tarra Conner Jones) is the glue to the whole show. As the show opens, Sue might be a pseudo mother figure, but she brings the humor to even the most unlikely situations. The careful balance between iron first and warm heart is clear.
Equally compelling is Osgood (Edward Juvier). Although not introduced until later in the performance, his uncanny insight into what people really need to feel fulfilled is endearing. He can make the audience laugh one moment only to stop in their tracks the next.
Overall, Some Like It Hot has the audience bubbling over in their seat. It is exuberant and poignant. From the person who can recall the classic movie to the someone who never had a clue to its reference, the older tale has a modern meaning. Learning to appreciate one’s true self is a universally understood ideal. It is time to heat up that conversation on and off the stage.
Some Like It Hot, the National Tour, stopped in Orlando, Florida at Dr. Phillips Center. The show continues on its tour in 2025.