A Legendary Life Told Through Song and Spectacle: The Cher Show Unfolds the Icon’s Journey of Resilience, Reinvention and Stardom.

November 19th, 2024

The Broward Center for the Performing Arts brings a dazzling celebration of music, resilience, and reinvention to the stage with The Cher Show. This captivating musical chronicles the life of one of entertainment’s most iconic figures, showcasing both the triumphs and challenges of Cher’s rise to superstardom.

The production employs a clever narrative device, splitting Cher into three distinct personas: Babe (Ella Perez), Lady (Catherine Ariale) and Star (Morgan Scott). Each actress offers a unique take on the icon, with Perez portraying Cher’s youthful ambition, Ariale embodying her rise to superstardom, and Scott delivering the confidence of a seasoned legend. Their performances intertwine seamlessly, giving the audience a multifaceted view of Cher’s evolution.

Standout performances extend beyond the lead roles. Lorenzo Pugliese as Sonny Bono provides both humor and heartfelt emotion, highlighting the pivotal role Sonny played in Cher’s life. Tyler Pirrung as Bob Mackie injects flair and wit, while Lucy Werner brings warmth to her portrayal of Georgia Holt, Cher’s mother.

Under the visionary direction of Casey Hushion, The Cher Show strikes a masterful balance between spectacle and intimacy. Hushion brings a deep understanding of Cher’s multifaceted persona, crafting a narrative that feels both grand and personal. Her skillful pacing ensures the story flows seamlessly between pivotal moments, capturing the humor, heartbreak and triumph that define Cher’s journey.

It would be impossible to discuss The Cher Show without acknowledging the visual feast provided by Bob Mackie’s Tony Award-winning costumes. Each ensemble, from the sequined gowns to the feathered headdresses, is a tribute to Cher’s fearless approach to fashion. The iconic “If I Could Turn Back Time” look is recreated with stunning accuracy, drawing audible gasps from the audience. Mackie’s designs don’t just clothe the performers, they tell a story, amplifying Cher’s personality and style with every stitch and sparkle.

Kelly James Tighe’s set design transports the audience into Cher’s world, featuring a kaleidoscope of lights and dynamic stage elements reminiscent of her famous Las Vegas residencies. The lighting, synchronized perfectly with the music and choreography, enhances the emotional beats of the story. Even the technical aspects, such as the placement of microphones at the center of the performers’ foreheads, are thoughtfully integrated, ensuring pristine sound quality without detracting from the aesthetic.

Musical supervision by Kristin Stowell brings Cher’s legendary discography to life with energy and precision. Songs like “Believe,” “If I Could Turn Back Time,” and “I Got You Babe” bring the house down, each number capturing a pivotal moment in Cher’s story.

At its core, The Cher Show is a testament to resilience and self-determination. It portrays Cher’s battles with sexism, heartbreak, and the challenges of reinvention, celebrating her as an enduring symbol of strength. The narrative strikes a perfect balance between humor and poignancy, leaving the audience inspired by Cher’s unwavering spirit.

The Broward Center’s The Cher Show is a must-see production that shines a spotlight on one of pop culture’s most influential figures. With a talented cast, breathtaking costumes, and an electrifying score, the show is as much a tribute to Cher as it is a celebration of the power of perseverance. Don’t miss your chance to witness this unforgettable production.