Reviewed By Carrie Willman
Broadway in Chicago presents the World Premiere of THE CHER SHOW – a new musical.
THE CHER SHOW is set to open on Broadway in November after a limited run in Chicago. The musical chronicles the highs and lows of Cher’s lengthy career portrayed by three actors in different stages of Cher’s life. There’s young Cher (Babe) played by Micaela Diamond, 70’s Cher (Lady) played by Teal Wicks, and the mature Cher, played by Stephanie J. Block. The three “Chers” are often on stage together, belting out her hits, talking to one another, and occasionally disagreeing about Cher’s choices.
The show stretches from her youth to one of her many farewell tours and it is set as if it were a variety show about her life. All three “Chers” were remarkable, and every song brought back a tumult of emotions.I couldn’t help but remember where I was when “Halfbreed” was a hit and who I was with when I saw the film Silkwood. My two show favorites were “Dark Lady” which has the bonus of a stunning, gasp-worthy dance and “Believe” which has been redone as a beautiful ballad. It would be impossible to pick a favorite “Cher” in this show, because all three were amazing.
Another highlight was Bob Mackie’s character, played by Michael Berresse. He is just what you’d expect – larger than life, over the top, and you want someone like him within your circle of friends. The zenith occurred for me when about 12 “Chers” came onstage in many of the iconic, controversial dresses worn by Cher early in her career. An added bonus is seeing ensemble cast member, Taurean Everett in Mackie’s Native American design – many mouths were agape at this beautiful site! Obviously the show will leave you on a “high”, but it will also leave you feeling such admiration for a person who has accomplished so much, and embodies resilience.