A Bronx Tale

A Bronx Tale

Longacre Theatre

July 5, 2017

 

Photo courtesy of A Bronx Tale

A Bronx Tale is an emotionally driven musical that takes the movie on which it is based to a deeper level.  The book by Chazz Palminteri, music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Glenn Slater, choreography by Sergio Trujillo, and direction by Robert DeNiro and Jerry Zaks all combine in the perfect telling of a moving and riveting story.  The second act builds to an emotionally powerful climax.  The cast creates characters who you want to embrace.  They tell a tale that you wish would never end.

When ten year old Calogero (played by Jonah Mussolino) witnesses a murder by a mob boss in his Bronx neighborhood, his life changes forever.  Calogero’s loyalties start to waiver between the love he has for his father, Lorenzo (played by Richard H. Blake) and the admiration he has for Sonny (played by Nick Cordero), the mob boss he did not rat on when he witnessed the murder.  It is not until eight years later when he starts falling for Jane (played by Ariana Debose), a black girl from Webster Ave., that he matures enough to recognize the difference between love and fear. 

Photo courtesy of A Bronx Tale

Bobby Conte Thornton is charming and slick as the older Calogero, who narrates the story in retrospect.  His character grows throughout the journey of the play.  His genuine fondness and esteem for the Bronx experience drives the story forward.  Nick Cordero is strong and commanding as Sonny.  You can see why Calogero looks up to him and follows him.  You can also feel Sonny’s heart open through the times he spends with C (his nickname for Calogero).  Richard H. Blake is endearing as Lorenzo.  The character holds firm to his beliefs.  He is driven by love for his son.  Mr. Blake powerfully delivers two riveting solos that give emotional weight to the story and create strong conflict for C’s character.  Lucia Giannetta plays Rosina, C’s mother.  She has only a few lines throughout the show, yet she performs a heartwarming solo in Act II that rounds off her character with a clear backstory and touching motivation.  Ariana Debose is energetic as Jane.  Her powerful singing voice rings beautifully.  She and Mr. Thornton have an authentic chemistry that propels Act II towards its captivating ending. 

Photo courtesy of A Bronx Tale

If you liked the movie of A Bronx Tale, you will love this musical.  If you’ve not seen the movie, go see this show right now!  It will fill your heart.  Hopefully A Bronx Tale will be running at the Longacre Theatre for a good long time.

Domenick Danza