Cagney The Musical - Bay Street Theater | 7.1.26

Bay Street Theater is currently producing “Cagney the Musical” from June 30th to July 26th and it tells the story of acclaimed actor James Cagney from his humble roots at home to his rise to Hollywood stardom, while getting a glimpse at the friendships/relationships he made along the way. Whether you are an avid fan of James Cagney or new to his work like I am, this musical features strong performances, great music, and dazzling choreography that will make every audience member sit up with delight!

Playing the role of James Cagney is Robert Creighton who delivers a consistently high energy and commanding performance. Creighton’s depiction of Cagney was so intriguing that I took it upon myself to watch two different James Cagney movies after the fact and he nails his mannerisms to a T; Creighton nails his facial expressions and inflections perfectly.

Honestly, he did this so well that it made me more interested in watching these movies - it made them more fun to watch!

Right off the bat we meet the entire Cagney family, celebrating the fact that James is the first person from the family in some time to be accepted to college and this is where I first fell in love with Jim Borstelmann. What a joy! Borstelmann plays Pa Cagney (among several other characters) but his jovial nature endears you to him immediately. I was especially excited to see Melissa Manchester as Ma Cagney. Manchester is the voice behind the hit song “Don’t Cry Out Loud” (most recently immortalized in an episode of Schitt’s Creek) and her performance here was equally iconic. She played Ma Cagney with firm, enthusiastic support for James and the love between them was clear and palpable.

Before long, James found success singing and dancing in vaudeville shows. He started as a general ensemble member and moved his way up the ranks, meeting Willie (played by Audrey Cardwell) along the way. While Willie initially rebuffs his flirty advances, it doesn’t take long for sparks to fly and they become partners, on and off the stage. Cardwell is the perfect person to play opposite Creighton, bringing a spectacular multi-dimensional energy to the role. Their dynamic chemistry was on full display in Act 1’s “Fallin’ In Love,” which was an absolute delight. I dare you not to smile!

James Cagney eventually catches the attention of Jack Warner (played by Bruce Sabath) of Warner Bros. who is looking to bring him to Hollywood and get him into movies. James has some initial hesitation due to the fact that he wasn’t too keen on abandoning his plans to pursue college as well as leaving his family. His mother empathizes with him, but also shares that this is a once in a lifetime opportunity that he shouldn’t pass up. Reluctantly, he goes to meet with Jack. 

Jack Warner is everything you would expect him to be - loud and slightly rude with a strong presence. Essentially the quintessential money-hungry, old time movie producer and Sabath nails this energy impeccably. Standout moments from Sabath include “Action” and “A Work of Genius,” where Jack is gloating about how good he is at his job and his level of creativity while sharing a fun back and forth with his assistant Jane (played by Corrine C. Broadbent). Broadbent is another to rave about! Playing Jane and other characters throughout the show, she floats through numbers effortlessly with precision while showcasing her incredible vocals in “A Work of Genius (Reprise)”! I was especially impressed with this number because the entire scene is changing behind her as she sings and dances. In another performer's hand, this may have been treated as a throwaway transition song between scenes but she made it a moment I was eager to discuss on the ride home. 

Last, but certainly not least is Daniel Plimpton (playing Bill Cagney and others) and Michael Starr (playing Bob Hope and others) and I don’t even know where to start with these two. These two sang and tapped through this show with the greatest of ease and could not have looked better! Plimpton was flawless during the “USO Cohan Medley” in Act 2 and Starr will absolutely knock your socks off in Act 2 as Bob Hope dancing alongside Creighton. We are talking bonafide, Broadway quality tap dancing right here in cozy Sag Harbor. Simply unbelievable. I was in awe!

From a creative and technical standpoint, I was equally impressed. Robert Creighton doesn’t just play James Cagney in this production - he also originated the role, has played it all over the country, and even co-wrote some of the music in the show. It’s no wonder he appears so connected to the character - he has embodied him for so long! Technically, this production is a masterclass in design. I love the space at Bay Street, however we can certainly note the challenges they would have bringing large set pieces out. However, they know their space extremely well and you don’t even notice it. The back wall had a monochrome theme that allowed for lighting and projections to completely transform its look. It was also nice to see hallways and corridors of the Warner Bros. building created by a rectangle of light. So simple, but genius at the same time! It proves that you don’t need huge expensive pieces if you use what you have in a creative and smart way.

“Cagney the Musical” is a love letter to the life and career of James Cagney, with high energy performances and dazzling choreography. Whether you are walking into the theater as a fan of his or not, chances are you’ll be walking out as one and intrigued to learn more. “Cagney the Musical” is running until July 26 and tickets can be purchased at the door, by calling the box office, or via their website at baystreet.org.

Cast:

James Cagney - Robert Creighton

Ma Cagney/Ma Jarret - Melissa Manchester

Schlotzki/Yussie & others - Jim Borstelmann

Jane & others - Corrine C. Broadbent

Willie & others - Audrey Cardwell

Bill Cagney & others - Daniel Plimpton

Jack Warner/Chairman Dies - Bruce Sabath

Bob Hope & others - Michael Starr

Offstage Vocals - Emma Kantor

Swings - Matt Guernier & Emma Kantor

Creative Team:

Originally Conceived by - Robert Creighton

Director - Will Pomerantz

Choreographer - Jeremy Benton

Music Direction, Orchestrations, and Arrangements - Doug Oberhamer

Scenic Design - Christopher Swader & Justin Swader

Costume Design - Barbara Erin Delo

Lighting & Projection Design - Mike Billings

Sound Design - Shaughn Bryant

Hair & Make-up Design - Liz Printz

Fight Director - Sordelet inc.

Production Stage Manager - Amber R. Dettmers

Original Choreography - Josh Bergasse