Bio-jukebox musicals rarely have earth shattering profundity or the narrative depth of a Shakespearean tragedy. The story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan is no exception. This musical is primarily a showcase for their music. Nonetheless, their story does reveal certain struggles. The struggle to overcome loss of a homeland, to adjust to a new life in the United States, for acceptance as Latino immigrants, to overcome racial prejudice and stereotyping, and to get the American music industry and radio stations to play their music. It seems odd now, when we consider the success of their hits, but in the late 70’s and early 80’s the Estefans and their Miami Sound Machine were too ‘Latin’ for mainstream American taste. They had to break down social and cultural resistance to introduce their fusion to the wider public. Ultimately, they succeeded. Their success was truly phenomenal, both commercially and critically, with over 100 million records sold and 26 Grammy Awards. The musical then reminds of the fickleness of such success when Gloria faces her greatest struggle, facing potential paralysis from the neck down after the crash of her tour bus in 1990.
As I have said, this is a showcase for their music and the hits keep on coming. Even if you are not a die-hard fan, you will be familiar with the vast majority of the songs: ‘Conga’; ‘Dr Beat’; ‘1-2-3’; ‘Anything for You’; ‘Coming Out of the Dark’; and of course, the eponymous ‘On Your Feet!’ Mixed in are songs that are probably better known to Spanish speakers and salsa dancers, such as ‘Mi Tierra, and ‘Con Los Anos Que Me Quedan’. Taken together there is a great variety of styles from traditional Cuban son to up-tempo pop fusion to plaintive ballad. The over-riding connection in the music is a strong sense of positivity. The net result is a palpable feel good factor.
The performers were quality. Philipa Stefani had the unenviable task of representing Gloria Estefan. Vocal comparisons in such a role cannot be avoided, and Stefani did a credible job, particularly at mid-range and with the more up-tempo numbers. She is certainly a triple-threat, displaying quality acting and strong dancing to deliver a convincing performance. Emilio was portrayed by George Ioannides, who was solid throughout, but had his star moment toward the end of the second act with ‘Don’t Wanna Lose You’. Two supporting performers stood out for their performances as Gloria’s parents, Madalena Alberto and Elia Lo Tauro. The whole ensemble were hugely energetic, and in some ways the notable stars of the show were the musicians playing the Miami Sound Machine. The band were periodically presented on stage on a retractable platform. They were incredibly tight and delivered high powered punch with intricate percussion and electric precision. They made it impossible to keep still.
Production values were good if not spectacular, and the director Jerry Mitchell did particularly well in pacing the show. While the scenes were as varied as the music in tempo, the audience were not rushed through the narrative, and the slower scenes were not allowed to stagnate.
One does not need to be a devoted fan of the Estefans to enjoy this musical. It is a positive and enjoyable experience, an upbeat musical that does what it promises by getting the whole audience up on their feet and dancing in the aisles. ★★★★☆ Robert Gainer 5th September 2019
