The Broadway musical adaptation of Billy Wilder's classic 1959 film 'Some Like It Hot' has received mixed reviews, with critics praising its production values but criticizing its modernized gender politics and uneven songwriting. The show, directed and choreographed by Casey Nicholaw, features music by Scott Wittman and Marc Shaiman and a book by Matthew López and Amber Ruffin.
The plot follows two Chicago musicians, Joe and Jerry, who witness a mob hit and disguise themselves as women to join an all-female jazz band. While the film is considered a near-perfect comedy, the musical struggles to update the material for modern audiences. Critics note that the show attempts to treat drag with greater sensitivity, shifting the focus from disguise and deception to self-acceptance and identity.
Performances by J Harrison Ghee as Jerry/Daphne, Kevin Del Aguila as a millionaire, and Angie Schworer in a supporting role are highlighted as standout elements. However, many songs are described as pastiches of better-known tunes, and some numbers feel out of place. The production's sets, costumes, and lighting are praised for their Broadway glamour.
The show's handling of gender identity has drawn attention, with Jerry's journey toward a nonbinary identity providing the musical's best song, 'You Coulda Knocked Me Over With a Feather.' While some have criticized the show as too 'woke,' the creative team aimed to address systemic bias with greater awareness. Overall, the adaptation is seen as noisy and overwrought, failing to capture the original's sophistication and charm.
