The Famously Fabulous Bring ‘Annie Get Your Gun’ Back To The Shubert

By June S. April

NEW HAVEN — It’s almost impossible to walk out of the Shubert Performing Arts Center after seeing Annie Get Your Gun without humming or singing at least one of the many songs that make this musical such a joy to see. Playing through August 20, the cast is comprised of the famous, the fabulous, and the fabulously famous. It’s a play for the whole family, with great music by Irving Berlin and engaging choreography by Graciela Daniele and Jeff Calhoun.

Starring Marilu Henner as the indomitable marksman (marksperson?) Annie Oakley, the multi-talented actress brings a different slant to the remarkable athlete. Ms Henner also offers a spicier twist to the role, with a slightly stronger dash of feminism tossed in.

Cutting a dashing figure as the egotistical sharpshooter Frank Butler, the actor Rex Smith is funny as well as strong in portraying his character. This production’s version of the song “My Defenses are Down,” in which Mr Smith is featured, is particularly delightful and one of the highlights of the evening.

The role of Chief Sitting Bull, though not quite politically correct, is memorably played by Larry Storch. Even if one does not remember him from the television series F Troop or the countless Broadway shows or movies he has been in, his is a face that is perfect for the role.

The real Annie Oakley was a pious, petite, sweet woman who had a loving, strong marriage with Frank Butler. This musical touches on a few facts in their lives.

Going to the Shubert Performing Art Center always brings this reviewer a special sense of excitement. The world premiere of Annie Get Your Gun was at this beautiful theatre. It was in 1946, and it starred Ethel Merman.

Two rather interesting side notes: In 1923, American inventor Thomas Edison shot some film footage of the renowned sharpshooter. It was a silent film. The second fact is that a slang term for a complimentary ticket (not necessarily for the theatre) is an “Annie Oakley.” The hole that (used to be) customarily punched in such a free pass brings to mind the bullet holes Annie Oakley would shoot into small cards during her theatrical performances: thereby hangs the tale.

(Performances of Annie Get Your Gun continue at the Shubert through August 20, with daily evening shows and matinees on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets range from $33 to $65. Call 800/228-6622 for specifics).