What I liked
Last year at the Hollywood Fringe Festival, I discovered CAC Studios and their own unique brand of musical theatre entertainment, musically directed by Dan Sugi who also acts and sings up a storm. So when I discovered his first full length musical creation BROADWAY NOIR was having its world premiere at Fringe this year, you can be sure I was there to see it on opening night. And the musical genius has outdone himself on this one!
Continuing in the immersive style which first pulled me into his shows, Sugi’s BROADWAY NOIR is being presented in the intimate backroom cabaret space at 3 Clubs, located at 1123 N. Vine Street in Hollywood, just a few steps north of Santa Monica Blvd., the famous hangout of Frank Sinatra during Hollywood’s heyday. The environment totally lends itself to the time period of the piece when bedazzled ladies and their well-heeled gents spent late nights hanging out and drinking with famous Hollywood stars.
Everyone is encouraged to come dressed in your 1940’s finest to peel back the curtains and go behind the scenes into the shady inner workings of the theatre business as you follow two of New York’s finest detectives as they investigate the disappearance of Broadway’s brightest new star. During their investigation, you get to eavesdrop as they interrogate bumbling producers, caffeine-crazed directors, mirror-hungry actors, and mysterious Broadway wannabes.
What I didn't like
Loved it all.
My overall impression
The highlight of Sugi’s musical numbers is Roger’s final solo “Then They’re Gone” which Nathan Ondacek delivers through his heartbreak at falling for his best friend’s gal. Being the honorable guy he is, there is a never a question he will ultimately do the right thing.
And be sure to chat up Nick Rubando (Jones/Reporter) when you first arrive as he strolls around the audience to create the 1940s world into which you have stepped. Tip your fedora, lift your martini to toast, and get ready for Dan Sugi’s musical mystery world premiere where everyone can have a really good time, even though New York City is quite a smelly place.
