A jukebox musical is an interesting subgenre within the world of musicals. Instead of using original music, the creative team has pulled from popular music. While some succeed, others make a good attempt to hit the mark.
The Heart of Rock and Roll is a new musical comedy that recently opened on Broadway. It’s 1987. Bobby (Corey Cott) tried for years to make it in the music industry. After coming to the conclusion that he was not going to become a rock star, he took a “regular” job and put his dreams away. Cassandra (McKenzie Jurtz) could have been climbing up the corporate ladder in Chicago. Instead, she returned to the family business to help her father, Chuck (John Dossett).
Set to the music of Huey Lewis and the News, Bobby and Cassandra are given a second chance to see their dreams become reality.
I have to give everyone involved with this show an A for effort. Obviously, the music is catchy. But the story is fairly predictable. I like that Cassandra is not just the love interest. Her career is important to her. As he usually is, Cott is magnetic on stage. Bobby is a dreamer who is still reaching for the brass ring, even with all of the obstacles in the way. Dossett’s Chuck is clearly dedicated to his work. But life has gotten in the way, putting his company in jeopardy.
But even with all of that, The Heart of Rock and Roll will not be in the pantheon of the greatest Broadway musicals anytime soon. It is closing on Sunday and frankly, I am not surprised.
Do I recommend it? Sort of.
The Heart of Rock and Roll is playing at the James Earl Jones theate in New York City until June 23, 2024. Check the website for tickets and showtimes.
Writergurlny 
You must be logged in to post a comment.