Some Like It Hot Brings Old School Charm with Current Event Issues to the Stage in St. Louis

–by Ashley Cox

A glorious wave of faux Spring rolled into the city in time for the opening night of “Some Like It Hot” at the Fabulous Fox Theatre in St. Louis. After weeks of single digit wind chills, all of St. Louis liked it hot and this musical only made it better. Based on 1950s movie of the same name starring Marylin Monroe, this 2022 adaptation mixes old school Hollywood glamour with a nuanced, modern viewpoint.

The plot is largely the same. During Prohibition, two unlucky musicians must outrun the Chicago mafia after they witness a murder. They disguise themselves as women, join a touring all women band, and hijinks ensue.

The multiple tap dance numbers had me grinning ear to ear and the crowd was also extremely pleased. At intermission a man behind me exclaimed to his wife “what a classic feel-good musical!” But unlike many old school musicals, this modern affair discussed race, politics, and gender identity in a beautiful way. Leandra Ellis-Gaston as Sugar sang about segregation and her future dreams in “At the Old Majestic Nickel Matinee.” Tavis Kordell’s portrayal of Jerry finding their true selves as Daphne was beautiful watch especially during this period where the few rights that transgender Americans have are under attack. Tavis with their statuesque dance lines, amazing voice, and excellent stage presence will certainly be on my best performer list of the season.

“Some Like It Hot” will be burning up the stage until March 9th so go see this masterpiece while you can (Tickets are available online HERE). Next up will be a special engagement of recent movie – turned musical – turned movie again with “Mean Girls” opening on March 14th for two days only.