Review: 'Million Dollar Quartet' a can't-miss musical that brings rock history ... - Tulsa World
Elvis Presley — whose “Love Me Tender” had just hit theaters — had left the Memphis studio that helped make him a star, and Johnny Cash and Carl Perkins were also making their way out the door. Sun Record Studios founder Sam Phillips (Bryan Langlitz) kept us abreast of this kind of information throughout “Million Dollar Quartet,” a well-crafted Broadway touring show inspired by a chance recording session with four pioneers of rock ’n’ roll. Helping the audience fill in the blanks with history and key details, Langlitz was just as vital as the performers who had to re-create the musicality, physicality and personality of four music greats. Jerry Lee Lewis’ character improved every scene in which Julian, a tremendously talented pianist, was allowed to shine. He brought a manic spirit to the role obvious from the way he struck the ivories (emphasis on struck — his was an often violent musical attack), shook hands and used the piano and bench like a piece of Pilates equipment. Some of the best jokes in the show came from Julian’s portrayal of the pianist, including some hilarious physical gags — a microphone stand easily makes for a bawdy prop — that had the opening-night crowd hooting. Source: www.tulsaworld.com
