Through February 15
Allen Theatre, PlayhouseSquare, 216-241-6000
Bob Abelman
As jukebox musicals go, “Five Guys Named Moe” – which premiered
on Broadway in 1992 – is a fair
to middlin’ confection. But this Cleveland Play House production of it is world class. What this show lacks in
conception and construction it moe than makes up for in execution.
To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's blog here.
Roy Berko
If you like the jazz and blues musical
stylings of Louis Jordan, you’ll enjoy FIVE GUYS NAMED MOE. If, on the other hand, you desire a
musical with a storyline, with songs and productions numbers that develop that
tale, then you will probably join those who left at intermission. Me, I’m a storyline kind of guy!
Howard Golub
The original production, a London West End import to Broadway, oddly owed more to squeaky-clean musical revues such as “Forever Plaid” than the down-and-dirty varieties such as “Ain’t Misbehavin’” and “Bubbling Brown Sugar.”
Here, the pseudo “cafe” ambiance of the original production has evolved into something like a Las Vegas show (albeit a smaller Las Vegas show, like the ones that seem to be included in hotel packages).
Mark Horning
If you are looking for an excuse to get out of the
house, “Five Guys Named Moe” is definitely the right destination for an evening
of great music and dancing. Although
light on the acting, it is as perfect an example of a delightful “Jutebox
Musical” as you will find anywhere. It’s
a nice winter escape.
To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's blog.
Christine Howey
It’s big, flashy and loud. It features six performers who can sing and dance with skill. And it presents a whole bunch of songs by Louis Jordan, the renowned hit-maker and sax star from the 1930’s to the early ‘50s. Plus, critics like this show because they can drag out all their tired “Moe” puns, But Moe about that later.
To see a full review of this show, read Christine Howey's blog Rave and Pan
Andrea Simakis
If "Five Guys Named Moe" were a month, it'd be sultry, sticky July, 'cuz the sexy, glitzy reboot of the 1992 Broadway revue showcasing the music of bandleader and sax man Louis Jordan is a real scorcher.
To see a full review of this show, read Andrea Simakis' blog or visit Cleveland.com here.
Art Thomas
The strengths of this production include fresh choreography unique for each of the musical numbers and a cast that grow on you. Weaknesses include a wafer thin premise, repetitious themes, and lighting that does not illuminate.
Click here to read the complete review at WestLife
