Local Looks: ‘An American in Paris’ brings timeless elegance to the Ruth
- Johnathan Taylor as Jerry and Ella Bleu Bradford as Lise pose for a promotional photo for “An American in Paris,” a show being performed at The Ruth and Nathan Hale Theater in Pleasant Grove this summer.
- Thomas Wood as Henri Baurel and the cast pose for a promotional photo for “An American in Paris,” a show being performed at The Ruth and Nathan Hale Theater in Pleasant Grove this summer.
- Taylor Tolman-Stanger as Jerry and Rylee Rogers as Lise pose for a promotional photo for “An American in Paris,” a show being performed at The Ruth and Nathan Hale Theater in Pleasant Grove this summer.
- Johnathan Taylor as Jerry and Ella Bleu Bradford as Lise pose for a promotional photo for “An American in Paris,” a show being performed at The Ruth and Nathan Hale Theater in Pleasant Grove this summer.
In mid-June, the Ruth and Nathan Hale Theater opened its newest production, “An American in Paris.” This Gershwin classic is the perfect summer production with fun storytelling, upbeat songs, romance and comedy. The show delivers a theatrical experience that’s an equal blend of nostalgia and freshness. In their first-ever collaboration, the Ruth has partnered with Utah’s Ballet West to bring this production to life.
The story is set in the wake of World War II, and the musical follows Jerry Mulligan, a former American soldier-turned-artist who, after deciding to stay in Paris, tries to make a new life for himself. Throughout his journey, he comes across a mysterious dancer whom he can’t help but feel drawn to. The show is a story of art, ambition and unexpected love, wrapped in the timeless music of George and Ira Gershwin.
For every production at the Ruth and Nathan Hale Theater, I am always so impressed by how well they can transform the stage into something new and stunning. The attention to detail in both stage production and costume design is incredible. In this production, the costumes’ vintage silhouettes and elegant dancewear, and an equal share of color and sequin, pop with movement, giving the production a cinematic flair.
The Monday, Wednesday and Friday cast rose to opening night with standout performances across the cast. Johnathan Tanner, playing Jerry, brings a likable charm and earnestness to the role. He anchors the show with charisma and conviction. His chemistry with actress Ella Bleu Bradford, portraying Lise, is natural and strong. Lise’s role demands both technical grace and emotional depth. Her dances on her own are challenging and technical, but she performs them with ease. Both Lise and Jerry’s ballet sequences, particularly in the show’s finale, are breathtaking both in precision and beauty.
Additionally, characters like Adam Hochberg, who is portrayed by Jordan Briggs, and Henri Baurel, who is portrayed by Thomas Wood, both have standout performances as well. Henri is a likable character who is trying to follow a dream of being a performer, and Adam is an American war vet-turned-artist who also chose to stay in Paris. Milo Davenport, portrayed by Teaira Burge, also had a standout performance of the night. Her vocals and confidence across the stage helped to differentiate her character as a high-class wealthy investor. All in all, Friday night’s cast meshed well together. All of them had a fun chemistry across the stage that helped to make the show the success that it was.
“An American in Paris” at the Ruth and Nathan Hale Theater is for music and dance lovers alike. This production has a perfect blend of all types of art. From beautiful ballet performances, fun songs and an artistic stage design, there is something for everyone. The perfect choice for summer, this show is a must-see and will leave the audience with a belief in summer magic.