Aspire Community Theatre raises the curtain on 'Crazy for You'

"Crazy for You," a high-energy Broadway musical that blends classic songs, comedy and show-stopping dance numbers into a feel-good theatrical experience, is showing at the Theatre at the Kroc, Aug. 6 through 9.  

The musical premiered originally on Broadway in 1992. The show is a romantic comedy inspired by the 1930 Gershwin musical "Girl Crazy" but reimagined with a new book by Ken Ludwig.  

Abe McKinney plays the lead role of Bobby Child. 

"The second I read the script, I fell in love with it,” McKinney said. “It’s quick, witty and hilarious while still keeping that timeless romantic feel."  

The music and lyrics are by George and Ira Gershwin, so expect famous tunes like “I Got Rhythm,” “Embraceable You,” and “Nice Work If You Can Get It.” 

A mix of old-fashioned Broadway charm, lavish choreography and screwball romantic comedy, "Crazy for You" is often described as a "love letter to the golden age of musical theatre." 

Local director, choreographer and instructor Paisley Siemens is at the helm of the production. Makayla Kaufman assists her. Paisley's recent directing and choreography work includes "Seussical" (CYT North Idaho) and the tap-dancing rats in Aspire's "Shrek the Musical."

 “Crazy for You has been such a great challenge because of how much tap dancing is needed to bring the production to life,” Paisley said. “It’s been an amazing show to choreograph because not only is tap my favorite style of dance, but our cast is full of trained tap dancers, along with really hard-working and enthusiastic people who have embraced all the aspects of this show that make it so fun!" 

Aubrey Babbitt, who plays Polly Baker in the show, echoes Paisley's sentiment. 

"The passion that everyone puts into their craft is incredible — and the result of this hard work speaks for itself," Babbitt said. 

Other creatives working on the production are Resident Music Director Presley DuPuis and Intern Director Elias Underhill.  

Showtimes are Aug. 6, 7 and 8 at 7:30 p.m. and at 2 p.m. on Aug. 8 and 9. Tickets for each show are $25 to $30 and can be purchased at [email protected]. Call 208-696-4228 for more information. 

    Sam (Ian Sadler), Mingo (Abel Siemens) and Moose (Larry Starrh) make up the Cowboy Trio in "Crazy for You." Aspire Community Theatre photo.