As long promised, the rhythm does indeed get you.
Also, theyre good parents.
But these first moments also establish that this is a slick, smooth, and infectious production.
Credit: Matthew Murphy
After that moment in Washington, things promptly flash back to Vietnam, 1966.
Thus is further established that she is not just a great talent but also a devoted daughter.
As the story works its way forward through the first act, everything goes right for Gloria.
Shes beautiful, beloved, kind, and generous.
She cares for her younger sister and sick father.
She is doted upon by her grandmother.
Its a well-built staging, but its Villafane that brings it alive.
She not only looks like Gloria, but she brings humanity to what could easily be a caricatured role.
And she sings spectacularly.
In the second act, things get even better for the Estefans.
Gloria becomes a bigger star.
Emilio gets her a huge contract.
Theres some anti-Latin bias, but Emilio pushes through it.
And no one is coming to this show for deep psychological insight.
Theyre coming for the music, and to dance.
AndOn Your Feetgets up and makes that happen.
