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music and lyrics by Robert Wright & George Forrest,

book by Charles Lederer & Luther Davies,

directed by Guillermo Silva-Marin

Toronto Operetta Theatre, Jane Mallett Theatre, Toronto

April 22-30, 2006

For Kismet, winner of the 1954 Tony Award for Best Musical, Robert Wright and George Forrest used themes by Russian composer Alexander Borodin (1833-87) to dress up a hokey tale in imitation of the Arabian Nights.  The results were major hits like “Stranger in Paradise” and “Baubles, Bangles and Beads” and a showcase for a multitalented male lead.  As Hajj, the wily poet who rises meteorically from beggar to emir, the ever-delightful Terry Hodges makes the work come alive.  So do Elizabeth DeGrazia as his daughter and Peter McCutcheon as the Caliph of Baghdad who loves her.  The rest, however, don’t quite match their panache in turning corn to gold.          

©Christopher Hoile

Note: A version of this review appeared in Eye Weekly 2006-04-27.

Photo: Terry Hodges and Gabrielle Prata.