Presented by Manhattan Theatre Club at City Center Stage II, 131 W. 55 St., NYC, March 27-April 8.
"Newyorkers" is a slick and sassy satire of life in the Big Apple. The musical revue is filled with lighthearted looks at the daily lives of various Manhattanites and outer borough dwellers, covering everything from co-ops and rent control to investments and IPOs. Even a mundane situation such as standing in line for a cappuccino at Starbucks gets an eye-opening (and hilarious) new spin. The show is a great primer for longtime residents and curious tourists alike.
The music by Stephen Weiner and lyrics by Glenn Slater suit the city perfectly, capturing the pulse, the people, and the irony of big city life. The songs are wise, witty, and wonderful, spoofing subjects such as a lusty Lady Liberty, deli romances, plastic surgery, the "alternative" set, and Chelsea boys.
One couldn't ask for a more diversely dynamic ensemble for a musical revue than the cast of Stephen DeRosa, Jerry Dixon, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Pamela Isaacs, Liz Larsen, and Priscilla Lopez. Each performer shines in his or her solo assignments, and then pours even more energy into the group numbers.
Christopher Ashley works his magic on the show, cleverly staging each number while keeping the scene changes streamlined and satisfying throughout. Daniel Pelzig adds equally compelling choreography, particularly in a humorous takeoff on "Riverdance." Weiner and Slater's songs benefit as well from the orchestrations by Robby Merkin and the music direction and vocal arrangements of Robert Billig, who also conducts the fantastic four-piece "Newyorchestra."
As stylish as the show itself are the technical contributions of the design team. Derek McLane gives the show an evocative backdrop, gracefully lit by Ken Billington. David C. Woolard's costumes are appropriately versatile, and Brian Ronan's sound design is impeccable.