BWW Reviews: THE BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE Shines Big and Bright

Houston's Theatre Under the Stars' production of the two time Tony award winning musical The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas reminds Houston audiences why it has always been said that the stars shine big and bright, deep in the heart of Texas. This production, full of big hair, is filled with even bigger show-stopping numbers and larger than life characters.

Michelle DeJean, making her triumphant return to the Houston stage, is perfectly cast as Miss Mona Stangley. In a recent interview with her, she confided that the mother hen aspect of the role would be a new challenge for her, but she handles it flawlessly. DeJean's Miss Mona instantly has the audience on her side because of how well she cares for her girls at The Chicken Ranch, especially the one she affectionately names Shy. All of this is confirmed in the emotionally charged, and nurturing number "Girl, You're A Woman," which is expertly delivered by DeJean and the rest of the cast. DeJean also shows her off her ability to adeptly portray Miss Mona's brassy side in the rousing and often humorous number "A Lil' Ole Bitty Pissant Country Place" and throughout the show. However, Dejean's ability to convey Miss Mona's vulnerability may be the most rewarding for the audience, as these scenes fully flesh out a living human being that we can all believe in. Numbers such as "Bus From Amarillo" and its second act reprise move audiences to tears. DeJean is perfectly cast, and I have a feeling that even though she can't see it in person, Edna Milton would approve of and even be proud of Michelle DeJean's interpretation of the character.

Perhaps the hardest character to sell to a Houston audience is Melvin P. Thorpe, based on Houston's own Marvin Zindler. Without missing a beat, Michael Tapley expertly channels Zindler, delivering a memorable and enjoyable character that is just as loud and obnoxious. Tapley's antics as Thorpe are sure to leave the audiences' sides splitting with guffaws of laughter, especially during the number "Texas Has A Whorehouse In It" and the press scenes with Sheriff Dodd. Ultimately, Tapley's Zindler-esque Thorpe is the villain you love to hate in the show. 

Kevin Cooney's lovable, but foul-mouthed Sheriff Ed Earl Dodd is wonderfully portrayed as well. He adeptly displays hard-boiled Texas conviction as he stands up for Miss Mona and does everything he can to run the wig-wearing, citified pest out of his county. He also shows a delicate and much appreciated soft side in his scenes with Miss Mona and the heartbreaking, bittersweet number "Good Old Girl."

Tamara Siler is a show-stopping force to be reckoned with as well. Siler's Jewel is golden and delivers powerhouse vocals in "Twenty-four Hours of Lovin'" and in her amazing duet with Michelle DeJean's Miss Mona, "No Lies." Likewise, Susan Koozin's Doatsey Mae leaves a lasting impression. In her touching number "Doatsey Mae" the audience is reminded of the importance of dreams and chasing them.

The rest of the company, including Julia Krohn as Amber, Brooke Wilson as Shy, and John Holly as the Texas Governor, do superb jobs with the roles they portray. There is not a single miscast person in the whole company. Each person on the stage delights and impresses. There are simply too many great moments in the show to mention them all here. However, I would remiss not to highlight the male ensemble's fantastic boot-clad tap dance during "The Aggie Song" and the hilarious and all-together impressive Aggie Angelettes!

The scenic and light designs are wonderfully conceived. Both are so simplistic that they have great versatility. The set easily evokes the impressions needed for the different locations that the show takes place, while the lights are expertly employed to evoke the right emotions. These minimalistic approaches are perfect as they also allow the audience to really focus on the magnanimous cast. Additionally, the costuming and prop choices are superb. No costume felt out of place or inappropriate. The props, especially the additional Angelettes, are wonderful touches that round out the enjoyment of the performance.

Lastly, the onstage band is amazing. Six Easy Pieces is a wonderful addition to the show. Also, be sure to get to your seats early and enjoy a little pre-show entertainment from Six Easy Pieces.

TUTS' production of The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, which was recently named as one of the top five theatrical experiences in Houston this summer, runs at The Hobby Center's Sarofim Hall until June 17, 2012. Please visit http://www.tuts.com/ or call (713) 558 – 8887 for tickets and more information.

Photos are courtesy of Bruce Bennett.