Review: Respect

From "Someone to Watch Over Me" to "I will Survive." It's the journey of women, told through Top-40 music in the new musical production RESPECT: A Musical Journey of Women. From the codependence of "I Will Follow Him" to the anger of "These Boots are Made for Walking," to the cynicism of "What's Love Got to Do with It," and finally to the strength of "Hero." Combining excerpts of 60 songs with women's own stories about finding dreams, lost love, relationship issues, entering the workforce, gaining independence and more, this show is "exhilarating!" *From the Respect website*

As I posted in the past, I won tickets to see this show but then, because of a mix up didn't actually get to see it until last Friday. But let me tell you - it was definitely worth the wait! Sweetpea, my mom, a friend and myself all had an amazing evening! And Sweetpea was the first to say she wanted to see it again! We all agreed with her... so, luckily, the show has been extended through the end of August.

There are only 4 performers in the whole show plus a three-piece band. The show is a great history lesson - without you seeing it that way :) You have too much fun singing and dancing along to all the songs you know. Even Sweetpea got in on it - sang the songs she knew and just danced along to the ones she didn't.

After the show, the performers were out in the lobby talking with everybody, signing autographs and taking pictures (of course, I didn't have my camera). They were all really nice and down to earth and each one even took a few minutes to talk with Sweetpea. One of them even said she saw her dancing and singing along to the show! She thought that was great.

It's a great show to see with your mom or just some good friends. If we do get the chance to see it again, we'll make it a "family" affair with Sweetpea, my mom, my mother-in-law and myself.

If you get the chance to see it - do it! You'll be glad you did!


Local reviews:
"Respect is terrific ... You couldn't ask for a more entertaining look at American women's history ..."- Creative Loafing

"'Respect' is a must-see for theatergoers who like a musical with something to say.” - The Tampa Tribune