Rocky: the Musical at the Winter Garden

The iconic story of small-time South Philly boxer turned local hero, Rocky Balboa, is brought back to life in this dazzling, high-tech musical adaptation that packs a whole lotta punches.  

Directed by two-time Tony Award-winner, Alex Timbers, Rocky features the kind of elaborate production you’d expect at a Madonna concert. Intricately configured lighting, projections and true to life sets emerge, slide, pivot and drop from the ceiling effortlessly with jaw-dropping effect.

Even the audience gets in on the action during the final fight. The first few rows are ushered onstage to play the role of ring-side spectators while a regulation size ring slides out over the seats to mimic a real live boxing match. Equipped with an overhanging jumbo-tron, cameras, sports casters, and an expertly choreographed fight scene by Steven Hoggett, typical Broadway gets turned on its head for an exhilarating finale.

Thankfully, all that mechanical wizardry does not outshine the actors and the story stays true to the beloved film, with Rocky’s and Adrian’s romance remaining a focal point throughout. Andy Karl as Rocky nails the Stallone-style swagger with his trademark “yo, Adrian”, and a loveable underdog personality that has the audience rooting for him.

Margot Seibert as Adrian radiates during her solo moments and Terence Archie as Apollo Creed brims with the kind of charisma befitting a world champ. Also impressing the crowd was Dakin Matthews as trainer Mickey, Danny Mastrogiorgio as Adrian’s bother and Rocky’s best pal Paulie, who really shined in their supporting roles.

With all that fantastic acting and electrifying technology, the actual songs tend to prove a little less memorable and are slightly overshadowed by the spectacularly ambitious production. But Rocky: the Musical leaves the audience on a high and brings exciting elements to the Broadway stage, unlike most have ever seen before in the theater. It’s truly a knock-out show.

 

Claire London

Rocky: the Musical is on until December 30 2014 at the Winter Garden Theater, for further information or to purchase tickets visit here.