Bullets Over Broadway
The show is lively if not timely
THEATER | Jamila Wicks
The production of Bullets Over Broadway at The Legacy Theatre has a few enjoyable moments. However, it does not fully meet expectations in terms of providing “the best medicine for the times,” as the musical’s director, Chaz Wolcott, hopes.
In his director’s statement, Wolcott acknowledges how difficult the past three years have been and suggests some may call it a collective trauma. He believes we all deserve time to unwind and have a few hours of levity. And who could disagree with that? However, it raises the question of whether this musical written by Woody Allen is the most appropriate remedy for such a time.
Bullets Over Broadway is a musical adaptation of Woody Allen’s 1994 film. Debuting as a musical on Broadway in 2014, the story takes place in Prohibition-era New York during the 1920s. It revolves around David Shane, a budding playwright searching for financial support for his show.
Shane, the lead character, portrayed by Will Moffett, meets Nick Valente, a powerful mob boss, played by Mark Wheeler, who offers to invest in the show on the condition that Shane casts his untalented and demanding girlfriend, Olive Neal, played by Campbell Coker. Once the deal is set, Shane picks a cast for the play. Neal struggles to find her footing among them. To her disappointment, Valente assigns Cheech, his top gangster, as her bodyguard. Surprisingly, Cheech turns out to have a flair for playwriting and a genuine interest in it.
As the story unfolds, the audience gets to experience an exuberant and campy musical, complete with a well-styled set and fabulously dressed Atta-Girls, gangsters and other supporting cast members dancing to lively 1920s music. Wendy Hayward, Mary McDonald, Scott Richardson, Betty Ring and their team deserve recognition for creating stunning costume ensembles and beautiful sets that make each scene a visual delight. However, the humor and lightheartedness promised at the onset of the musical did not quite deliver and missed the mark.
Given recent events such as the pandemic, social unrest and Supreme Court rulings, coupled with Woody Allen’s complicated history with misogyny and racism, some individuals may perceive Bullets Over Broadway, once considered charming and funny in 1994 and 2014, as cringy and vulgar. It feels wrong to fully enjoy a musical that portrays women in derogatory roles, like showgirls dressed provocatively as tigers, or to laugh at a cast of female characters depicted as flighty, alcoholic and promiscuous and use them as an escape from the pressing issues of our time. Presently, such depictions seem tasteless and inappropriate.
Additionally, in response to a critique of the 2014 Broadway production, Chaz Wolcott, the director of the musical adaptation, seems to have made a conscious decision to cast Black actors as gangsters. This choice deviates from the original version by Allen, which did not feature such casting. The new casting approach offers the audience the opportunity to witness the impressive tap-dancing skills of Jaden Saunders in a couple of roles. Yet, Wolcott’s attempt at a new direction falls short when one of Saunders’ characters is shot in Act I. In Act II, Saunders is the only cast member dressed as a banana tap dancing on stage as the company performs “Yes, We Have No Bananas.”
Opinions may vary regarding the relevance of the Woody Allen musical in today’s world. Some may consider Bullets Over Broadway outdated, while others may see it as a welcome reprieve from current affairs. There is no judgment here for either stance. The show features impressive tap dancing, fabulous costumes, a wonderfully creative set design and a chance to support local arts, making it worthwhile to see it and visit the charming Legacy Theatre. Performances continue July 13-16 and 19-23.
Jamila Wicks has over 20 years of experience working in government and nonprofit organizations, with the last five years focused on arts and cultural institutions. She currently resides in Decatur while working in Springfield. Wicks is originally from Georgia and holds a master’s degree in public administration and a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Georgia.
This article appears in Revitalizing Robin Roberts Stadium.
First, how dare you make this production seem like it’s doing something wrong. It was a CHOICE to cast based on TALENT and not by color. By your drawing attention to the casting and utilization and featuring of Black actors in certain roles YOU are the one with the racist heart. How miserable you must be to write something like this about this show. How vile and despicable to come to a show based in the 1920s – SUPER racist times – and not notice the choices made to FEATURE and UPLIFT our insanely talented young people… instead you have tainted a production which everyone involved worked tirelessly to bring to life in an attempt to bring joy to the community. How dare you. Your commentary is what is racist if you ask me. You have a problem with colorblind casting? How about the fact that The Legacy Theater is one of the only theaters in town that actually DOES SOMETHING TO PROTECT THEIR VOLUNTEERS?!?! How about the fact that in October we did Kinky Boots – a show about inclusivity and acceptance?! How about the fact that at a moments notice, the people running the place help anyone who asks?! I guess that means nothing. How dare you write this disgusting, despicable, and deceitful “review”. How about focusing on the positive instead of harming the only place in town that is constantly striving to do things right and uplifting our young people. Jaden has a whole reel now of intricate tap combinations to add to his resume for his intended future in tap. I am just sickened by this JOKE of a review.
Maybe interview Jaden about how HE feels about his part? Or Antonio? The Black actors involved never once felt things were racist – and they WERE consulted at every moment something had that undertone. We eliminated lines that WERE racist even though our actors said they were ok with it. We still chose to do our best to make this NOT what you are saying it is.
I can’t stop commenting because I am floored by this. Did you come to this show already hating it?? Just curious.
It is the job of a reviewer to “call ‘em like they see ‘em.” We cannot, however, let this article, which uses its brief eight paragraphs to seemingly accuse The Legacy Theatre of misogyny, sexism, and racism, stand without a response.
When considering this musical for presentation, we did ponder the “Woody Allen issue.” Separating the art from the artist is a debate of the ages, but one which has risen to the forefront of our consciousness as favorite musicians, writers, actors, directors, artists… have been exposed for problematic views or actions.
As an organization, and as individual humans, we must be mindful of who receives our attention and where we spend our money, and that is an individual decision. But we feel it is unrealistic to completely remove these artists from the mainstream.
It is worth noting that the creation of a Broadway musical is the result of the talents and efforts of scores of individuals, not just one person. It was felt that this musical, which was nominated for six Tony Awards in the 2014 Broadway season, and based on an earlier Academy Award winning film, was worthy of presentation for our central Illinois audiences. That it’s foolishness would provide a couple hours of goofy diversion. We think it succeeds in that mission.
The reviewer notes “in response to a critique of the 2014 Broadway production, Chaz Wolcott, the director of the musical adaptation, seems to have made a conscious decision to cast Black actors as gangsters.” We are unclear what critique Ms. Wicks is referring to; however, at The Legacy Theatre our “conscious decision” is to cast the most wonderfully talented individuals that we can, regardless of race.
The reviewer notes, “It feels wrong to fully enjoy a musical that portrays women in derogatory roles, like showgirls dressed provocatively as tigers, or to laugh at a cast of female characters depicted as flighty, alcoholic and promiscuous and use them as an escape from the pressing issues of our time.” She fails to note that this musical is an equal-opportunity offender, as the male characters are written in an equally caricaturistic fashion, as insensitive, dim-witted, and adulterous. And over-eaters. Not to mention, murderers. And some of them are dressed as hot dogs. That certainly must be the wurst.
The Legacy Theatre also employs an open protocol with our performers which allows anyone, at any time, to voice a concern about the material we are presenting, the fashion in which it is being presented, and their comfort level with anything the creative team is asking them to do onstage.
In the end, we are proud of the show that we have created, and of the talents and tireless efforts of our cast and behind-the-scenes artists who have endeavored to bring it to the stage.
We delight in the nightly laughter, applause and standing ovations of our audiences. We hope the takeaway from this article is Ms. Wicks final sentence, “The show features impressive tap dancing, fabulous costumes, a wonderfully creative set design and a chance to support local arts, making it worthwhile to see it and visit the charming Legacy Theatre.”
“Bullets Over Broadway” continues thru July 23, with performances on Wednesday and Thursdays at 7pm, Friday and Saturdays at 8pm, and Sundays at 2pm.
For tickets, please visit http://www.AtTheLegacy.com
Scott Richardson
Executive Director, The Legacy Theatre
Yikes.. this review doesnt even really cover the show. You gave no opinion on how BRILLIANT the actors were and the amazing effort they put into the show. The shows humor may not be everyones cup of tea but many people have voiced that it is HILARIOUS. And you highlight the problematic parts of the show that arent actually a problem? It just looks like you were trying to find problems with the show. And giving no solutions to those problems. If you actually knew these people personally you would realize why the people were cast the way they were. Jay was AMAZING. There was a reason he was cast the way he was because he is a brilliant dancer. Not because it was race driven.
-Shelby C.
I echo every comment on this post. Regardless of my involvement in this show, this is what I believe you will see if you take the time to support Bullets Over Broadway:
You will see Will Moffett excel as David Shayne. You will see how hard he has worked. How fabulous and truly perfect he is for this role. I couldn’t be more proud.
You will see my best friend Matt Woodson leave his beloved “good” character and explore Cheech’s mobster personality. You will see him shine in his singing, dancing, and acting.
You will see Lori Ann McCabe put on the most beautiful and hilarious performance. She doesn’t disappoint.
You will see Kinsey Peotter BELT like no one you’ve heard before. One would kill to have a voice like hers.
You will see Jaden Saunders, Cooper Coker, and so many others tap their asses off. Their dancing alone is worth the price of admission. Does Jaden wear a banana costume? Yes. Is it because he is arguably the best young tapper in Springfield and the staff made an amazing choice to feature him for his talents, not his race.
You will see STUNNING sets, wigs, props, costumes, and more. This team is INCREDIBLE.
The reviewer’s reaction does not reflect the reaction of the common audience member. But why take it from me? Come see Bullets Over Broadway. Because I promise, it’ll bring you so much joy.
Hello!
I’d love to chat with the editor of the Illinois Times, or this reviewer, if they are interested in a discussion. This “review” is incredibly irresponsible and short-sighted, and is harmful to the dozens of volunteers involved in this production. I’d be happy to do an interview about the material in the show, as well as the adjustments and consideration given to the material and the choices we made. My name is evoked over and over on this page, and yet my intentions are misrepresented, and my quotes are misused. If this reviewer feels this is their way of holding our show accountable, I’d like to hold their reporting of our show accountable as well.
I never anticipate reviews that just rave about everything, but I also don’t expect reviews to share with readers what they perceive to be my directorial intentions without actually asking me about them. I don’t appreciate being misrepresented. Say my work is bad – that’s your prerogative, but please don’t assume my intentions and misrepresent them, while implying that I am reckless in my leadership. It’s appalling to me that a review would even cross into that territory without knowing the first thing about our process, and I don’t appreciate it. This is a theatre and a group of people that deserve much better than this article, which barely discusses the content of the musical at all.
There are amazing performances that should be celebrated here. I am extremely disappointed that I’d even have to write this on a legitimate publication’s site.
Chaz Wolcott
Director
Clearly you just hate theater and have zero taste when it comes to anything so let me break it down. You don’t like the show because it was written by woody Allen, so never watch anything with anyone who’s done something you don’t like ever again. You also say you don’t like it because of the vulgar humor?! Grow up most of the crowd when I went was old enough to be my grandparents and they were laughing harder than me. I’d hate for you to see any more modern musical based in real life. You should really look at yourself and think about if “reviewing theater” is for you because personally I think you stink of political agenda, NO ONE WANTS POLITICS IN THEATER AND YOU KEEP IT OUT OF IT TOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have worked with the legacy before and there is not a more welcoming and accommodating atmosphere than that theater you should go back to school to learn about getting primary reliable sources before you speak. You suck
Id like to add that falsely accusing a local business/theatre of racism is SOOOO dangerous. Not only does it hurt their business if people believe what they are falsely told, it hurts the reputation of everyone involved. Volunteers, actors, actresses, crew, directors are all at risk just because of some editor on this website approved this article and thought this was ok. Even if they themselves are not a racist/misogynist/ anything listed above. There are ZERO sources to prove that the director of this show or the director of the Legacy Theatre had any intentions of being racist/misogynist/anti social justice. In fact this writer did not even do their research. They didnt interview any of the crew or cast to get VALID and TRUE information. This sort of behavior is DANGEROUS and should be talked about and should be unacceptable. So I say shame on this writer. For wanting to be WOKE and bring politics into a place where people go to enjoy themselves and where people in the theatre community can share their talents. Shame on you.
Thank you for specifically highlighting me and my talent. I sincerely appreciate that, while also feeling like I can’t remain silent. Though I didn’t know much about Woody Allen prior to this show, my mom shared some information with me so I would know his history. I can see why his past would cause some people to call for a boycott of his material and it’s fine if that’s the writer’s position. Still, there was a show with many talented people – some dance and vocal moments that I look forward to each night and I can’t say enough good things about all people involved in this show. Very little of that was discussed, which is ironic because my role is actually minor. Every decision that was made was done so in consultation with the artists (including the banana suit). But that’s something you would know by being in the cast or talking to someone involved in the production. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion and I hope people will come see the show and decide for themselves how they feel.
With all due respect, I think that Ms Wicks review of the show suffers from her own strongly chosen perspective of viewing the show exclusively through the prism(s) of modern day race and gender. Its set in the 1930s, so there will inevitably be certain characterizations that would be unacceptable in todays world. But I saw no evidence of any grossly offensive racial or gender stereotyping. Also, this play, for a musical, has some very dark, very adult themes & undertones, unsuited for anyone under 16 or so. Its very definitely not Disney(or Sesame Street) on Ice, which mayve thrown Ms Wicks off her game as a reviewer, if light entertainment was all she was looking for. This is not mindless entertainment. Its a very good, fun, yet by no means light evening of theatre. I highly recommend it.
PS- After slamming the play itself for her own personal issues with it, Ms Wicks should have at least had the decency to commend the very strong cast, which has done an amazing job bringing this play to life in performance. Well done, cast & crew! 🙏🎭🎼
I saw Bullets Over Broadway Thursday night at The Legacy and enjoyed the high energy escape! The talent demonstrated both on and off stage was astounding and up to the high standard of excellence The Legacy never fails to deliver.
Every audience member brings their own life history and perspective to the theatre and their theatre experience is rooted in their personal story. Every performance is what is happening on stage, behind stage, and in the audience, making every performance a unique experience for each individual involved.
The Thursday night experience was joyous on and off stage with much audience laughter and applause.
It seems the IT reviewer was mired in her perspectives in socio-political theory and rhetoric and therefore lost the import of the musical setting in 1920s New York, the zany world of musical comedy, and the joy you all demonstrated on and off stage!!
To all of you dedicated Legacy volunteers, performers, artists, and especially Bullets Over Broadway cast and crew!!! Great Job!!! I thank you for a wonderful, fun filled evening!!!