Some Like it Hot Review – Alicia Mainjeni

Snap, crackle, sizzle and pop, Some Like it Hot was proven to be far from a flop as it took the Minneapolis’ Orpheum’s stage by storm with its national tour. Directed and choreographed by the remarkable Casey Nicholaw, this artistic production gives societal fragmentation a spin by touching on complex issues with a touch of comedic amusement. While the production captures the essence of the original film, it additionally brings a fresh and vibrant energy that resonates with a modern audience. Not only does the musical stay true to the movie-based plot, but the live performance aspect adds an extra layer of excitement.

Some Like it Hot, the Broadway musical adaptation of the classic 1959 film, is set in Chicago prohibition. The story revolves around two musicians, Joe and Jerry, as they flee the Windy City and disguise themselves as women to escape gangsters after witnessing a crime. They join an all-female band heading to San Francisco, leading to various comedy and romantic escapades. 

The commendable performance on behalf of Tavis Kordell is nothing short of spectacular. Kordell brings the perfect blend of humor, charm and vulnerability to the role, making Daphne, one of the two “disguises” the leads turn to, a standout character in this production. Daphne’s constant comedic tone allowed for audience members to remain engaged and connected to the show before, during and after laugh-out-loud moments. Additionally, Kordell’s ability to convey Daphne’s complex emotional struggle made the character’s journey increasingly entertaining and heartfelt. Daphne’s Act Two ballad, “You Coulda Knocked Me Over With a Feather,” pulled the audience members into a world of curiosity and a newfound love for Jerry’s journey in realizing that they were more comfortable in Daphne’s skin. The portrayal of Daphne is a highlight of the tour, contributing significantly to the show’s overall success. 

Adding a unique and entertaining dimension to the show, the cross-dressing element encouraged audience reflection on themes of acceptance and identity. Matt Loehr and Kordell’s performances in the roles of Joe and Jerry were convincing and insightful. The two actors balanced the comedic aspect with a respectful portrayal of gender fluidity. The costume design concerning this matter is particularly noteworthy. Careful and considerate Gregg Barnes hit the nail on the head with the meticulously crafted costume designs that enhanced the characters’ transformations. 

While highly entertaining, this musical in itself does miss an opportunity to delve deeper into the historical context of the Prohibition era. The intersectionality between the early 1930s and the border social events such as the rise of organized crime, racial tensions and the women's suffrage movement are not fully explored. While some lyrics in songs such as “What Are You Thirsty For” and “You Can’t Have Me (If You Don’t Have Him)” suggested a hint of the time-frame of the show, more in-depth elements could have provided a more nuanced backdrop for the characters’ journeys, highlighting how historical forces influenced their lives and decisions making them more compelling and relevant.

The Broadway tour of Some Like it Hot is a testament to the best elements of the original film and the magic of live theater, creating a show that is both nostalgic and refreshingly new.