To See or Not to See: Summer: The Donna Summer Musical

Donna Summer was a music legend. Not only is she credited as being the “Disco Queen,” but she’s also a mother, daughter, wife, and saavy business woman. It’s no surprise that her life story would eventually find it’s way to a Broadway stage.

For audience members not as familiar with Donna Summer the woman as with her iconic songs, the show is eye-opening. From being molested as a child in the church to failed relationships and drug abuse to taking control of her business to a (finally) happy marriage and family, Summer was incredibly human.

The show itself encourages audience participation since it’s set up like the last concert Donna Summer is performing for her fans. Many, in fact, were singing and dancing along in their seats. While it could have used a quick intermission, director Des McAnuff keeps the story fast-paced. It breezes through Summer’s childhood all the way to the end.

The music is seamlessly interwoven throughout the show. Some of the showstopper numbers include “Love to Love You Baby,” “She Works Hard for the Money,” and “Last Dance.” Just as her Disco music brought all types of people together regardless of gender, the ensemble of Summer turns a blind eye to gender definitions. Many of the background male roles are performed by androgynous-looking women (kudos to costume designer Paul Tazewell for all those evocative and good-looking costumes across the board). And, almost every cast member does double or triple duty as they perform multiple characters throughout.

Now, let’s talk about the performances. The three Donnas—LaChanze (Diva Donna), Ariana DeBose (Disco Donna), and Storm Lever (Duckling Donna)—are fantastic. In particular, LaChanze and Ariana DeBose knock it out of the park. Both women were Tony-nominated for their performances, and both women brought strength, vulnerability, and a lot of heart to their versions of Donna. Not to mention, DeBose’s dancing (especially during “She Works Hard for the Money”) were fabulous.

While most bio-musicals aren’t genre-bending, they are all really entertaining. Full of familiar music and favorite songs, these musicals are meant to get you moving in your seats. Summer: The Donna Summer Musical fits the bill.

Summer: The Donna Summer Musical is currently playing on Broadway. Click here for more information.

Photo Credit: Matthew Murphy