On & Off Broadway

‘On Your Feet’

Review by Elyse Trevers

Posted

Exciting, exhilarating, pulsating. It’s nearly impossible to sit still at the new musical, On Your Feet. If you love the music of Gloria Estefan, you will be delighted by the new bio-musical choreographed by Sergio Trujillo and directed by Jerry Mitchell.

However, if, like me, you also want an engrossing story, this show could be a bit disappointing. Alexander Dinelaris’ book is thin and the dialogue somewhat clichéd. Events that should have been compelling aren’t. The focus is primarily on Gloria, her relationships and her famous bus accident. Gloria’s marriage to Emilio and the subsequent birth of their son are glossed over. The first act concentrates on her relationship with her parents, her father’s tour in Viet Nam and later illness. Although her mother is present, Gloria appears to have much of the responsibility of the family. Her mother (well-played by Andrea Burns) seems to be resentful, jealous and self-centered. The two argue when Gloria takes her sister along with her on tour. Consequently mother and daughter have no contact for years. It is her grandmother who encourages her career.

Act Two depicts Gloria's horrific bus accident. It is uncertain as to whether she will ever walk again. Through grit and determination, she does prevail and eventually walks again, so the act (and the show) end on a positive note. Yet the general tone of the story is somber and sad — not the feeling one wants from this type of musical.

The couple’s Latino background is important, especially when Emilio is told their music is too Latino and can't cross over. History and music sales show otherwise but it's all due to his perseverance. “You should look very closely at my face,” he says, “because whether you know it or not … this is what an American looks like.”

This is a unique theater season, one that resonates eerily with world politics as millions of people are being displaced from their homes. Fiddler On The Roof depicts anti-Semitism and the Jews' expulsion from Russia, and Allegiance tells the little-told story of the forcible removal and internship of Japanese in camps during World War II. On Your Feet provides the Latino immigrant experience, yet this show is too easy, bouncy and colorful.

The leads are attractive and extremely talented. Ana Villafañe is an energetic, vivacious Gloria who looks and sounds much like Estefan. Josh Segarra brings a sensual quality to Emilio. When the two are performing together, he’s always leaning towards her or watching her intently, creating a sexual attraction.
Like other jukebox musicals, On Your Feet integrates songs throughout the show and most tunes will be familiar to the audience. “1-2-3,” "Dr. Beat," and "Rhythm is Gonna Get You" serve as high-energy performance numbers. Everyone loves “The Conga” and is ready to jump up to join in the Conga line at the conclusion of the first act.

The music is great and the dancing energetic. It’s enough to get you on your feet.