A Heartfelt Throwback to the ‘80s with ‘The Heart of Rock and Roll’
Over 20 Broadway shows made their debut this past season, and just in April, 14 productions had their opening night. Among those shows is one that is taking audience members back to the ‘80s. Whether you are a fan of the bright neon leggings or punk rock tunes, and even if you are not you will be mesmerized by the vocals, dancing — including unimaginable props, and comedy. The Heart of Rock and Roll is bringing nostalgia of an era that left its mark on music, fashion, and society wrapped in bubble wrap (iykyk).
Photo by Matthew Murphy
From start to finish, you will be transported in time from the colorful outfits and shapeshifting set from award winning visionaries like costume designer, Jen Caprio, and set designer, Derek McLane. But what will keep you hooked? The group numbers choreographed by Lorin Latarro. The musical features some of the best showcases of movement by an ensemble. The energy translated from stage throughout the rows of the James Earl Jones Theatre, with audience members clapping and cheering along every group number.
Photo by Matthew Murphy
The musical comedy is inspired by chart-topping anthems of Huey Lewis and the News. With hits like “Do You Believe in Love,” to “Hip to Be Square.” The musical follows Bobby, a rock and roller who’s traded his guitar for the corporate ladder and his boss Cassandra who’s always put the family business first. While their paths cross, they are also faced with life altering decisions when they are given a second chance to live out their dreams. With the help of their friends, a little song, dance, and love they ultimately have to make a decision.
We talked with McKenzie Kurtz and Corey Cott, also known as, Cassandra and Bobby in The Heart of Rock and Roll on Broadway.
Photo by Matthew Murphy
McKenzie Kurtz
No stranger to embracing some beloved characters from Glinda in Wicked on Broadway, to Anna in Frozen on Broadway and Star-to-Be in “Annie Live!” on NBC, McKenzie Kurtz is originating a character for the very first time. Bringing to life Cassandra, McKenzie’s comedic timing and powerhouse vocals bring you in and keeps you watching. A standout moment is her performance of “It Hit Me Like a Hammer.”
J: Were you familiar or a fan of Huey Lewis and the News music before being part of the production?
M: Growing up I was familiar with some of Huey’s hits like Do You Believe in Love, Hip to be Square and The Power of Love but I became a true fan of him and his music after meeting him and working on the songs in our show!
J: What is your favorite number to perform in the show and why?
M: It changes all the time but one song I always look forward to performing is It Hit Me Like a Hammer. It’s one of Huey’s lesser known songs but it’s become a real stand out in the show for me. Brian Usifer has created such a brilliant arrangement of it, I frequently get questions about it at the stage door!
J: Anything you have learned along the way from playing your character?
M: This is my first time originating a role on Broadway so this entire process has been a major learning experience for me. It’s been so incredible to be able to help create this show and this character.
Photo by Matthew Murphy
J: What do you hope people take away when they see the show?
M: We like to say this show might not change your life but it will definitely change your evening and for the better. I hope people leave with a smile on their face after experiencing 2 and a half hours of pure heart, laughs and amazing music.
J: Why is it important more than ever for people to come out and support Broadway, especially The Heart of Rock and Roll?
M: There were so many new shows in this season and it’s so important that we go to see and support new theatre so we can give it as long of a life as possible! I think our show gives people something different than any other show this season and I challenge anyone who’s uncertain about it to come see it for themselves and not crack a smile.
Corey Cott
Corey Cott has been seen on-screen in the Fox series “Filthy Rich” and in Hallmark movies like Making Waves and Butlers in Love. Now he is making his Broadway return as Bobby in The Heart of Rock and Roll. From bringing moments of laughter or knowing how to bring everyone in through his solo performance of “The Only One,” Corey makes stage look like home for him.
J: Were you familiar or a fan of Huey Lewis and the News music before being part of the production?
C: Admittedly I was only slightly familiar with Huey. I knew “Power of Love” and a few other songs, but I quickly learned my dad took my mom to see Huey in concert while they were dating! So I’ve now told Huey he’s partially responsible for my existence.
J: What is your favorite number to perform in the show and why?
C: It changes every day! Singing “Do You Believe in Love” with the whole cast is always so much fun. It’s one of his most recognizable tunes, and the crowd always loves it. I also really enjoy singing “The Only One.” It’s one of the only serious moments in the show. As an actor, it’s super cathartic standing alone on a Broadway stage and having the opportunity to sing your heart out every night.
Photo by Matthew Murphy
J: Anything you have learned along the way from playing your character?
C: Joy is contagious. Choosing positivity amidst chaos and adversity is very hard, but a choice worth making nonetheless. I’m trying to see everything the way Bobby does - life is one big opportunity!
J: What do you hope people take away when they see the show?
C: I hope they walk away with the biggest smile on their face!
J: Why is it important more than ever for people to come out and support Broadway, especially The Heart of Rock and Roll?
C: Society can be very cynical and divisive. We offer a chance to escape all of that, and simply live in the joy of great music, hilarious storytelling, and a night they will never forget!
To see The Heart of Rock and Roll on Broadway at the James Earl Jones Theatre, visit heartofrocknrollbway.com/tickets/.
