How often in a modern musical do we get song after unforgettable song, production numbers that tickle all of our sensibilities, and from which we walk out humming memorable tunes that make us smile? I'd say just about never.
The Pajama Game, from out of Musical Theater's past, concerns a management-labor dispute over a raise of seven and a half cents. The show has it all in terms of material, and with its splendid cast of terrific singer-dancers, it is one of the most enjoyable times you can spend on Broadway.
Harry Connick, Jr.'s relaxed charm, good looks and Sinatra-like voice are a delight, and the audience of matinee ladies kvelled. Kelli O'Hara is delicious as the union representative, and the comic foils Michael McKean, Joyce Chittick, Megan Lawrence, Roz Ryan and Peter Benson are funny. And funny's good in comedy. This is a Musical COMEDY, and George Abbott and Richard Bissell's book (from Bissell's novel) with songs by Richard Adler and Jerry Ross, is as entertaining now as it ever was. Moreso. "Hernando's Hideaway," as performed by Lawrence, is absolutely hilarious. This is an "all singing, all dancing" show with a great crooner in the lead: he sings he dances, he plays the piano; he's a star! So go, you'll have a good time. And then let's go dance the Tango at Hernando's.
