The Donna Summer musical, officially titled “Summer: The Donna Summer Musical,” premiered on Broadway in 2018. The musical follows the life and career of disco legend Donna Summer, featuring many of her greatest hits. Reviews of the musical have been somewhat mixed, with critics praising the music and performances but finding some issues with the story and structure. As with any musical, personal taste plays a role in how much any given person will enjoy the show. Looking at what critics and audiences have said can help determine if “Summer” is a worthwhile show for Donna Summer fans and musical theater lovers.
What is the Donna Summer musical about?
“Summer” charts Donna Summer’s life from her childhood in Boston through the heights of her music career in the 1970s and 80s. It features three different actresses playing Summer at various points in her life. Much of the musical focuses on Summer’s struggles to find her voice and identity as a Black woman and artist. It also depicts her relationships with producers and collaborators like Giorgio Moroder who helped create her famous disco hits. Over 20 of those hits are performed in the show, including:
- “Love to Love You Baby”
- “Bad Girls”
- “MacArthur Park”
- “Hot Stuff”
- “Last Dance”
- “She Works Hard for the Money”
Some dramatic license was taken with the story, as is common for musical biographies. But overall the show aims to capture the spirit and music of Donna Summer’s iconic career.
What have critics said about the musical?
Reviews from top theater critics have been mixed to somewhat positive. On the review aggregation site Metacritic, the musical has a score of 60 based on 19 reviews, indicating a mixed but generally favorable response.
The Hollywood Reporter called it an “exhilarating portrait” and praised the performances, choreography, and of course the music. However, they found the narrative too thin and episodic.
Variety was very positive, writing that the musical “captures the glorious artistry and liberating joy of Summer’s music” and “succeeds in summoning the essence of the oft-labeled ‘Queen of Disco.’”
But other critics had more negative takes. Entertainment Weekly rated it a C+, saying the musical lacked coherence and that the storytelling was all over the place. The Wrap said that while the music and performances were great, the show had issues making Donna’s story emotionally resonant.
Common Critical Praise
– Strong singing and performances, especially from the three lead actresses playing Donna.
– Choreography and concert-style musical numbers are exciting and upbeat.
– Hearing live versions of Donna Summer’s top hits is a treat.
Common Criticisms
– Narrative and book by Colman Domingo are weak. Story lacks depth and clear direction.
– Too much emphasis on checking off career highlights without connecting them.
– Short shrift is given to some key collaborators like Giorgio Moroder.
What are average audience reactions?
While critics had qualms about the story and plot, regular theatergoers have been more universally positive on the musical. Here are some statistics on audience responses:
Rating Source | Rating |
---|---|
BroadwayWorld | 4.5 / 5 stars |
TheaterMania | 9 / 10 |
RateYourSeats | 4.5 / 5 stars |
On crowdsourced review sites like RateYourSeats, common praise from fans includes:
– Hearing Donna’s music performed live is amazing.
– Performances and dancing are superb.
– Escapist and nostalgic disco fun.
– Inspiring story of Donna overcoming obstacles.
So while the musical may have flaws from a critical perspective, most regular theatergoers have absolutely loved hearing Donna Summer’s music performed on stage.
Should Donna Summer fans see the musical?
This musical seems tailor-made for lifelong fans of Donna Summer eager to celebrate her legacy. Even critics concede that the music itself takes center stage marvellously. Audience reactions show how enthralled fans have been.
While the storytelling may be imperfect, the musical captures the spirit of Donna Summer and provides a fun, uplifting tribute to her groundbreaking career. For Summer fans, it’s likely worth overlooking any narrative flaws and letting the hits transport you back. Hearing fantastic live versions of classics like “Hot Stuff,” “Bad Girls,” and “Last Dance” should satisfy those looking to honor the disco diva’s talents.
Should casual theatergoers see the musical?
For those who aren’t big Donna Summer fans but enjoy musical theater, responses are likely to be more mixed. The music is stellar of course, so people appreciate disco and dance-driven shows will find a lot to like. However, issues with the book and story may be harder to overlook without pre-existing fandom.
Casual theater fans should watch some recorded performances online to get a sense of the musical numbers. If the singing and dancing enthuse, then it could absolutely be a fun night out. But those looking for a gripping story or coherent narrative may leave feeling disappointed.
Go for the stellar music and performances, not necessarily the plot. Liberate yourself and sing along to those quasar classics.
Conclusion
While the Donna Summer musical has its issues with storytelling and structure, most fans and critics agree the music and performances are excellent. For loyal followers of Donna Summer, it’s an enjoyable way to celebrate her career and hear renditions of her top disco hits live on stage. Casual viewers may be more critical of the narrative flaws, but could still find it a fun, escapist jaunt. Overall the musical seems to capture the spirit and excitement of its subject fairly well, if not always the coherent life story. So “Hot Stuff” fans are likely to have a good time, while those seeking a deeper story may find weaknesses. Either way, the musical lets you dance your way through Donna Summer’s sparkling hits once more.