‘Bandstand’ to warm up NPAC in January

It would have been easy to simply plug in 1940s pop standards. But, instead, Richard Oberacker and Robert Taylor created a swinging original score that not only captures the period style but also digs deep into the characters. 

The music is so tightly integrated into the script that Bandstand becomes unusually powerful musical theater. Its reinterpretation of the traditional 11 o’clock number is both smart and electrifying. Andy Blankenbuehler, who rose to prominence as the choreographer of In the Heights and then Hamilton, does a stunning job as both director and choreographer.

Bandstand is “a swing musical” that boasts the most spectacular dance choreography. The brilliant Blankenbuehler keeps his stage full of remarkable performers moving just about constantly in ways that make spectators watch what each is doing individually and what all of them are doing as a lithe, athletic team. The remarkable result leaves the audience captivated by the movement and held tight by the story.

Toe-tapping, hands-clapping, no-ones-napping, Bandstand will warm up the stage in what can be referred to as the coldest month of the year. 

Van Wert will be Alive with entertainment on January 23 and the performers of Bandstand will keep the stage hot! Begin 2020 with Broadway and you may find yourself dancing throughout the year.