Ain’t Misbehavin’
The Fats Waller Musical Show
Directed by Roberta Emerson
Musical Direction by Terrance Lane
Featuring Dayja Le’Chelle, Bethany Hemmans, Shane Bland
Orlando Shakes, Orlando, Florida • April 23, 2024
Carl F. Gauze
They call it “The Blues,” but this music seems pretty toe tapping, and no one on stage seems terribly upset, even when a woman’s man is another man’s woman. Or something like that. However the sexes sort things out, it sure gives us some great tunes.
We find ourselves in the roaring ’20s, almost exactly a century too late. Women sparkle, men smoke stogies, and musicians are blowing the blues like it’s the end of the world. That world is full of new toys: automobiles, radio, airplanes, and penicillin. The only thing missing is booze — some bluenose killjoys decided ethyl alcohol was the work of the devil, never mind Jesus’s skill at wine making. Fortunately for these party people, you can make alcohol out of sugar and yeast and a warm room. So the party rolls on, and we dance along.
You’ll hear all the 1920s hits on this stage: “The Joint Is Jumping,” “Your Feet’s Too Big” and “Viper’s Drag.” I didn’t smell any of that particular vice, but we all have hopes. There’s a classy element with more upscale entertainment: “Jitterbug Waltz,” “Yacht Club Swing” and “Lounging at the Waldorf.” Then there’s a more streetwise sound with “Fat and Greasy,” “When The Nylons Bloom Again,” and “Ain’t Nobody’s Bizness.” These folks have all the fun.
This is the closing show for Orlando Shakes and the 23/24 season, and next year’s schedule may be a little weird, as a major renovation of the building begins after the upcoming Fringe Festival. Who knows what space-age innovation they are planning? And will they find the wadded-up dollar bill I tucked behind Queen Elizabeth’s dress a few years ago? If you can find it, you can keep it. Now I have to check my personal distillery out in the garage. Drink safely!
