"Come Fly Away"

A smooth baritone croons the opening bars of Hoagy Carmichael’s “Stardust” in the darkened theatre as dancers glide onto the stage and the music segues into “Luck Be a Lady” . That baritone belongs to Ol Blue Eyes, The Chairman of the Board – one Francis Albert Sinatra. The production is a concept created by the choreography genius of Tony and Emmy winning Twyla Tharpand with the permission of the Sinatra estate. I have been anticpating this Dancap Production at the the Four Seasons Centre since I first heard it was scheduled.

Aside from the ghostly voice of Frank it features a live orchestra and the talents of such musicians as P.J. Perry (who does a lovely solo on “Body and Soul”, Dave Young, Levon Ichkhanian, Jason Logue, Al Kay and um…Colin Murray – yes we are related.

I know I don’t usually write about theatre – but I am making an exception because of course, well, hello -it’s Frank Sinatra – need I say more? The production is chock full of signature Frank tunes including "Witchcraft", " You Make Me Feel So Young" and "My Way" to list a few – and the moves to compliment them. I really need to get out and see more dance.

The scene is a nightclub and the characters who enter there convey the many shades of love – from first encounters to jealousy, lust, obsession, heartbreak and happily ever after. Standouts include the numbers “Let’s Fall in Love” featuring Christopher Vo as “Marty” the “klutzy” bartender – I only wish I could be so inept on the floor – his moves are sinuous and fluid though he is taking tumbles and pratfalls.He and his partner Ramona Kelley do a great routine on "You Make Me Feel So Young".

The visceral pas de deux between Anthony Burrell and Ashley Blair Fitzgerald as “Hank and Kate” – who obviously have relationship issues – her flirtation, his jealousy to “That’s Life” is electrifying. It’s a rough and ready realization of the knockout blows that life can deal – and still we endure. They also provide a poignant excursion on that classic lament, “One For My Baby”.

Cody Green is reminiscent of a young Gene Kelly in his athletic feats as “Sid” on “I Like to Lead When I Dance” and later the very sexy duet with Laurie Kanyok as “Babe” on “Teach Me Tonight”.I feel a little like Mary or Nigel on “So You Think You Can Dance”…except without the caustic remarks or screaming.I do know I admire tremendously all the hard work and beautiful expression created by the ensemble.

As much as the dancers are front and centre - the band gets its opportunities to shine as well and why not..working with the great charts of the likes of Nelson Riddle, Qunicy Jones, Johnny Mandel in a long list of arrangements and arrangers.

Treat yourself to this journey, a great escape without leaving the country – minus the hassle of customs, delays and jet lag. I can attest it did…”Fly Me to the Moon”.

Until August 28^th.

www.DancapTickets.com