Crazy For You
Hessle Theatre

Award-winning Hessle Theatre Company are back at Hull New Theatre with the very best of musical theatre royalty, Gershwin, in musical-comedy Crazy for You. 

Set in 1930s New York, we follow Broadway-loving dreamer, Bobby, on his journey to deliver foreclosure notices to a failing theatre in Nevada. Only his love of the stage, and love-at-first sight for a headstrong-stranger, leads his plans astray. 

From curtain up we are greeted with spectacular costumes and impressive staging with the soundtrack provided by a 16 piece live orchestra, which brings the big Broadway atmosphere. Despite a couple of lighting and mic hitches, the show was a feast for the eyes and ears from start to finish. 

Ben Bailey, as Bobby, set the pace with his opening numbers 'K-ra-zy For You’ and ‘I Can’t Be Bothered Now’. From the moment Ben stepped foot on the stage we knew we were in for a treat with his sublime tap-dancing and comedic timing. His performance alongside Ian Appleyard as Bela Zangler had me in stitches.

Elinor Kirby was effortless as tough-talking country girl Polly; powerful and emotive in equal measure, her vocals during ‘Someone to Watch Over Me’ were simply stunning. Elinor and Ben had believable chemistry and their choreography together was beautiful to watch.

The entire cast, from cowboys to ensemble, gave fantastic, enthusiastic performances.  Special mention has to go to Sarah Brodie as Tess and Gina Hobson as Patsy, along with the Zangler’s Follies, who were perfectly cast. Their fancy footwork and melodies had me mesmerised, and I couldn’t take my eyes off the incredible costumes! ‘Nice Work if You Can Get It’ was a show highlight for me; I felt I’d be transported to 1930s Broadway.

Choreographer Martin Beaumont has done a fantastic job of showcasing each and every one of the talented homegrown cast. The high-energy, company wide numbers ‘Slap that Bass’ and ‘I Got Rhythm’ were incredible to watch and made the show really special. 

Crazy for You will have you smiling from start to finish. Catch it at Hull New Theatre until Saturday 23 March. Get your tickets here: Hessle Theatre - Crazy For You – Hull Theatres

Review written by Mel Cooper

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