Classic Theatre of Maryland’s production of 42nd Street is a joyful extravaganza of dance and song. The musical, with book by Michael Stewart and Mike Bramble, and music by Harry Warren, follows a young chorus girl who finds unexpected success in a new musical. Directed and choreographed by Sally Boyett, with music direction by Maureen Codelka, it is a fun tribute to the pains and joys of theater life.
Katie Van Horn plays Peggy Sawyer, auditioning for the new show, with an innocence hiding great strength. She quietly but firmly rebuffs Billy’s (Kees Hoekendijk) advances, getting to the director. She tap dances in her chair before standing up in “Go into Your Dance.” She comically loses her place in rehearsal and, loosening up for a love scene, gets kissed. She shines in “42nd Street,” starting off hesitant but quickly coming into her confidence and filling the song with power.
Stephanie Meadowcroft brings a sense of entitlement to famous actress Dorothy Brock. She recoils at having to audition, in fact bringing a contract with additional demands. “Shadow Waltz” is full of energy even as she complains about her outfit. “I Know Now” is rich with longing for a lost love. Her duet with Peggy, “About a Quarter to Nine,” is a charming song and a surprising connection between two seeming rivals. Dexter Hamlett plays Abner Dillon, Dorothy’s wealthy benefactor helping to bankroll the show, as a Texas charmer, hugging Dorothy and refusing to let another man kiss her during a love scene.
Kees Hoekendijk brings a confident charm to Billy Lawlor. He swings Peggy around in “Young and Healthy,” inviting her to lunch. His tap duet with Peggy in “42nd Street” is sultry and spellbinding.
John Pruessner plays director Julian Marsh with authority, telling the actors how hard they will work to prepare for the play. He works Peggy to exhaustion getting her ready for the part. “Lullaby of Broadway” is a love song to Broadway but also a plea for Peggy. His pep talk to Peggy comically puts tremendous pressure on her.
Austin Rose brings a charm to Pat Denning, Dorothy’s secret lover. He assists Peggy while she recovers from exhaustion in Dorothy’s dressing room, then defends her against Dorothy’s anger. Nancy Krebs plays writer Maggie Jones with an insider’s view of show business, knowing how to make things work. She gives “Go into Your Dance” joy and optimism. Tommy Malek plays co-writer Bert Barry with an eagerness, sure that all crises can be fixed. He is comically excited as a newlywed in “Shuffle Off to Buffalo.”
Emma Puerta, Mackenzie Koehne, Maya Nellum, Ava Schmidt, Sara Davis, Ann-Marie Poveda, Kirsten Kauffmann, Sam Vankampen, Jacob Scott, Benjamin Campion, and Jack Flynn play the ensemble and chorus girls and guys. They all show their different personalities, from funny to flirty to jealousy. They sing “Sunny Side to Every Situation,” looking for optimism during a bad time. “We’re in the Money” is a joyful song of finding luck. Sara Davis as the Pickpocket in “42nd Street” is captivating in her spins and leaps.
Costume designer Sally Boyett and wig designer Tommy Malek evoke the 1930s Broadway show era with colorful costumes for each number. Dorothy looks every inch the star in furs and a small hat, while Peggy quietly stands out in a dark blue dress.
Lighting designer Sam Terrell plays with lights in clever ways. For “Shadow Waltz,” two lights project Dorothy’s shadow onto the backdrop. Sound designer William K. D’Eugenio balances the singers with the music, while music director Maureen Codelka ensures the music projects. Choreographer and director Sally Boyett fills the show with excellent tap dancing and lovely movements, from solos to duets and chorus numbers. 42nd Street beautifully showcases Classic Theatre of Maryland’s talented performers and crew. Go see it!
Running Time: Approximately two hours and 20 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission.
42nd Street plays through May 17, 2026, at Classic Theatre of Maryland – 1804 West Street, Annapolis, MD. For tickets ($61–$89), call the box office at 410-415-3513, email BoxOffice@classictheatremaryland.org, or purchase online.
