The Legend of Georgia McBride (Arden Theatre Co., Philadelphia) by Matthew Lopez

Philadelphia has a lively and vibrant theater scene and some very interesting things happen here.  The Legend of Georgia McBride is one of those things.

Presented in the smaller upstairs space at the Arden, The Arcadia Stage, The Legend of Georgia McBride is a rollicking, feel-good story about an Elvis impersonating dreamer married to a waitressing realist.  He plys his Elvis act in a down-at-the-heels club that, unbeknownst to him, is replacing his act with a drag show. 

Upon learning of her pregnancy and his dismissal, Casey, played with serious ‘aw shucks’ charm by Matteo Scammell, falls into filling in for the drunk (and hysterical) Rexy played with sass, brass and sarcasm by the terrific Mikeah Ernest Jennings.  What follows is the story of a man finding, and embracing, his inner drag queen with the help of some new and unexpected friends.  The always wonderful Dito van Reigersberg is touching, funny and absolutely wonderful as the elder stateswoman of the show, Miss Tracy Mills.

Of course, trouble ensues when Casey’s wife finally learns the truth and Rexy returns from rehab, but as with all feel good shows, everything is all right in the end.

Filled with laughs, sequins and wonderful songs The Legend of Georgia McBride will leave you smiling; while also wondering how these men can move like they do in those heels…………………..