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Gershwin Classics and Dynamic Tap Dancing Take Center Stage in BYU Theatre’s “Crazy for You”

This November, BYU Theatre Will Perform Dynamic Tony Award-Winning Musical “Crazy for You”

Bobby Child (played by Ben Hansen) and Polly Baker (played by Bryndal Braithwaite)
Photo by BYU Photo

Beloved songwriting duo George and Ira Gershwin’s Tony Award-winning musical “Crazy for You” opens in the BYU Mainstage Theatre this November. With flair, humor and zestful dance numbers, it’s not a production to be missed.

“I am so excited for audiences to join us. They can look forward to a show that celebrates the timeless music of the Gershwins with exciting tap dancing, energetic group numbers, creative comic characterizations and innovative staging,” said director Stephanie Breinholt. “This cast has been absolutely amazing in rehearsals. Each night I am laughing out loud at their comedic timing and equally touched by their vulnerability and connection as performers and as people.”

Bobby Child (played by Ben Hansen), Polly Baker (played by Bryndal Braithwaite), Lank Hawkins (played by Blake Haskett), and Irene Roth (played by Stella Rose)
Photo by BYU Photo

“Crazy for You” features a small town facing danger of foreclosure and a musical-loving banker who steps in to save it with the help of the Follies and some slapstick comedy. The technically demanding production is replete with energetic dance numbers and Gerswhin classics such as “I’ve Got Rhythm” and “Embraceable You.”

Parley Lambert plays the role of Bela Zangler, and this production is the first musical he’s been a part of in over five years. “In addition to the regular things that might come from being rusty at musical theatre, there has been a very high bar of excellence set out for us — we have been moving through the rehearsal process extremely quickly,” said Lambert. “That being said, we all help each other to do our best; when one person struggles, the rest are eager to help so that we can reach that level of excellence together.”

“So much of the storytelling in this show happens through dance and I’ve really enjoyed exploring how to use movement to make these people and their stories really come to life,” said Ben Hansen, who plays the role of Bobby Child. “We have jump ropes, lifts, tosses, leaps, tricks and, of course, tons of tap dancing. This show has really challenged our limits as dancers, but the payoff is huge; the whole show is an absolute spectacle from start to finish!”

Tickets and Show Details

When: 
Nov. 8-9, 12-16, 19-23, Dec. 4-7 at 7:30 p.m. 
Nov. 9, 16, 23, Dec. 7 at 2:00 p.m.
Where: Mainstage Theatre — BYU West Campus 
Price: $24–29
Tickets: Available online at BYU Tickets 

Crazy for You