Pint-Sized Musical Opens In Sherman

SHERMAN — Opening this weekend, the pie-flinging, pinstripe-wearing, pint-sized classic musical Bugsy Malone has finally made it onto the Sherman Theater’s stage.

A cast of youngsters plays Prohibition-era mobsters in this tongue-in-cheek tribute to the 1920s gangster flick. It seems Fat Sam, who runs one of the most popular speakeasies in town, is in danger of being closed down by his “business rival” Dandy Dan. Enter baby-faced Bugs Malone, a killer with the ladies and a definite asset to Fat Sam. Unfortunately, Bugsy has also caught the eye of Sam’s girlfriend Tallulah – though he’s set his designs on the showgirl Blousy Brown.

This highly entertaining musical is based on the 1976 movie Bugsy Malone, which had starred Scott Baio and Jodi Foster. As in the movie, the “non-violent” gang war is fought with “splurge guns” which spew forth custard pies instead of bullets. It’s a thoroughly charming, irreverent and clean showcase for a cast of talented young performers.

Director and Choreographer Lanny Mitchell has cultivated a very talented cast that’s sure to please every “dirty rat” and “stool pigeon” in the audience.  Stephen Ross is the producer, Sarah Howard is musical director, Ian Bolster is set designer, and Cynthia Cohen is costume coordinator and designer.

With original book by Alan Parker, and a catchy, honky-tonk score by Paul Williams, one of the most popular songwriters of the 70s and 80s, Bugsy Malone will please and entertain every one of all ages.

Bugsy Malone opens July 28 and runs weekends through August 19. Curtain times are Friday and Saturday at 8 pm. Matinees will be performed Sundays, August 6 and 13, at 3 pm.

Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for ages 12 and under.

Sherman Playhouse is at the junction of routes 37 and 39, behind Sherman Firehouse. For reservations, call the playhouse at 860-354-3622.