This Saturday I had the privilege of seeing Million Dollar Quartet, put on by the Actors Theatre of Indiana at the Studio Theater in the Center for the Performing arts in Carmel, IN. The best way I can describe this experience is when you see someone smiling, and in turn that makes you smile - but apply that to the entire night.
As someone who is a fan of theatre, I have to say that this was one of the best shows I have ever been to. Not only were the actors talented vocally and instrumentally - but they were having the time of their lives. You could tell this was what they truly love to do.
Each member of this cast was perfect for their role.
Taylor Gray as Jerry Lee Lewis was electrifying and hilarious, and the epitome of Lewis.
Jeremy Sevelovitz as Carl Perkins was dynamic and strong.
Betsy Norton as Dyanne was mesmerizing and exquisite.
Adam Tran as Elvis was born to play this part and captivated the audience.
Brandon Alstott captured the air of Johnny Cash and brought depth to his character.
Kroy Presley and Nathan Shrew made it possible for each song and number to happen and played beautifully.
And Don Farrell as Sam Phillips was passionate and true to his character - he brought everyone together.
I cannot say enough amazing things about this performance. Each member of this cast was truly vital to the success and each and every one of them nailed their performance, making it an absolutely unforgettable and fantastic night.
Without any one of these participants, the show wouldn't have been the same. My only complaint about the show was that is was only an hour and 45 minutes, because I could have stayed there all night. When the show was over, the cast was able to let loose and interact more with the audience. You could see the pure joy and love each of them has for the performing arts. To them, this is more than their job, but their life. And for that moment, for that hour and 45 minutes they were not Taylor, Jeremy, Brandon, and Adam - they were the Million Dollar Quartet. I believed it, they believed it, and that is why this show was so magical.
Whether you grew up with this music, listened to it because your father insisted that these men were the greatest of all time (and I have to give it to him - he was right), or you have never heard of Jerry Lee Lewis in your life - you will love this show.
Sadly, the show had its last performance at Studio Theatre this weekend. But you can still catch the same amount of magic with the next show ATI is putting on, Cabaret.
The Actors Theatre of Indiana's tagline is "expect the unexpected". That couldn't be more true for this performance. I expected to love the show, but I didn't expect to still be thinking about it days later. Well done to the entire cast and crew- I'm looking forward to the next unexpected performance.
