Review: The Long Island Premiere of BULLETS OVER BROADWAY At The Noel S. Ruiz Theatre

The incarnation of Bullets Over Broadway, The Musical at Oakdale's Noel S. Ruiz Theatre at CM Performing Arts Center (CMPAC), is certainly an enjoyable one. Strongly directed by CMPAC Artistic Director Patrick Grossman, the Long Island premiere, running through August 11th, spectacularly closes out the venue's thrilling 42nd season. And let me tell you this cast is absolutely wonderful.

The black comedy, set in the late 1920's/early 1930's, follows up-and-coming playwright David Shayne trying to gain financing for his play. Once he finds an opportunity, David reluctantly agrees to hire untalented actress Olive... who happens to be the girlfriend of a gangster... who happens to be financing the play. While she is, shall we say, hard to work with, her body guard, Cheech, another gangster, surprisingly turns out to be a genius contributing clever ideas to David as he (also reluctantly) does rewrites to his work. Hilarity abounds as the show progresses.

Charmingly portraying David is CMPAC vet Steven Cottonaro. A slightly anxious demeanor balanced with great comedic timing suit the role well. His dismay for Olive, hysterically portrayed by Melissa Goldberg, is quite obvious. Indeed, Ms. Goldberg brings roars of laughter from the enthusiastic audience with adorable ditzy and likeable charisma. Also a scene stealer is the brilliant Emily Nadler portraying the Norma Desmond-esque Helen Sinclair. In particular, Ms. Nadler's rapport with Mr. Cottonarro is truly entertaining offering several uproarious moments.

In truth, I really could on and on about the entire cast as they are all excellent.

On Mr. Grossman's creative team, a highlight is the fun choreography by Ashley Nicastro. Tap and jazz rule this production which is always a welcome treat. The score is also familiar consisting of old standards from the time. And the set, done by Mr. Grossman, is beautifully enhanced by Alison Weinberger's lighting (though some minor lighting cues from her team may have to be cleaned up). And special kudos to Ronald Green III for the stunning costumes.

And so, Bullets Over Broadway is positively another hit for The Noel S. Ruiz Theatre. A wonderful cast and fun music make for a thrilling evening of theatre.

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Bullets Over Broadway is presented by the Noel S. Ruiz Theatre of Oakdale, Long Island. For more information and to purchase tickets, please call (631) 218-2810 or visit www.cmpac.com

Based on the 1994 movie created by Woody Allen an Doug McGrath, Direction and Set Design by Patrick Grossman, Musical Direction by Matthew Surico, Stage Management by Amanda Wenchel, Choreography by Ashley Nicastro, Sound Design by Nicolette Carosi, Lighting Design by Alison Weinberger, Costumes by Ronald Green III

Starring Ryan Nolin, Steven Cottonaro, Anne Marie Finnie, Jacqueline Minogue, Emily Nadler, Brodie Centauro, Ronnie Green, Andrew J. Beck, Melissa Goldberg, and Jeff Pangburn with Kristi Kahen, Milan McGouldrick, Adriana M. Scheer, Juliana Jagielo, Megan Monaghan, Debbie Hecht, Matthew Surico, Brian Frank, Christian Kalinowski, Justin Cimmino, Mike Shapiro, David Tucciarone, Kara Edwards, Steffy Jolin