Andrea McArdle and Jeff Coon dominate the show, which essentially is the love story of Annie Oakley and Frank Butler. Historical trappings, the Indians and show biz behind-the-scenes are welcome embellishments -- side shows, if you will -- but what drives <I>Annie Get Your Gun</I> is the plot about a woman winning a man only by allowing him to think that he's the dominant one. <BR>Coon stresses his assertive and domineering character, and he sometimes neglects the romantic legato that's in his music. He should try more <I>portamento,</I> carrying over the ends of lines and linking them to the next line. McArdle's every note is on pitch and she acts well. The only thing missing is a joyous belt in her voice that could connect more solidly with her audience.
Mary Martello is excellent as Coon's previous partner; her singing and comic timing are superb. <BR>Richard M. Parison Jr's stylish direction makes clever use of the aisles, pit and upper level platforms. <BR>
As a theater historian, I'm glad to see the show virtually uncut. This production follows the 1966 script, which replaced 1946's cute but inconsequential "Who Do You Love, I Hope" with the great Berlin duet, "An Old-Fashioned Wedding." The controversial "I'm an Indian Too" scene (omitted from the 1999 Broadway revival) is restored, and is a hoot.
