***** Experiencing a musical pre-Broadway is a rare treat, and thank goodness, Broadway In Chicago , allows us that opportunity. I recall sitting three rows behind Gloria and Emilio Estefan on opening night of their story, “On Your Feet” during tryouts, and the excitement their music brought to the full house. I think it was just released to the regional theaters and Drury Lane was given first right. Last night, we revisited this marvelous story and saw that under the direction of Director/choreographer Luis Salgado, and with this amazing cast, this version of “On Your Feet” is even stronger than the original!

For those who do not know the names of these people ( I have to ask where have you been?) Gloria ( an amazing Gaby Albo who truly fills the venue with her energy) and her husband Emilio ( played to perfection by Samuel Garnica) were a band known as Miami Sound Machine, creating a special sound that brought the Latin flavor to the world. This story is a true love story. It touches on immigration, a topic that we are seeing, reading and hearing about every day, and family. We also see the ups and downs of the people as the world accepts or denies their music and sound.

With a strong book by Alexander Dinelaris and featuring the music of the Miami Sound Machine, we watch the story of their lives, their ups and downs of their relationship. We meet the family over a period of years. Little Gloria ( an adorable portrayal by Charlotte Arias /alternating with Talia Josephson) and her being discovered. One of the characters, Consuelo ( deftly handled by Ana Marie Alvarez) will grab your heartstrings every time she comes into the story, as will Claudia Quesada’s Gloria Fajardo. Angel Hikari Salgado’s dancing skill is amazing and the entire ensemble changing costumes (Christopher Vergara’s stuff is amazing and designed for some very quick changes- one onstage dress) and characters to keep this production moving along.

It does move! While it runs around two hours and twenty five minutes with one 15 minute intermission, it feels as if it is much shorter. The talent and direction keeps the story moving with no hesitation in set changes ( the set by Clifton Chadick) is amazing. Two stories high, with terrific sight lines for the huge auditorium. Everyone sees all of the action! The cast is composed of the following: Diana Marilyn Alvarez, Christina Benninghoff, Henry Cartaya, Lillian Castilo, Bryanna Ciera Colon, Joseph Michael Coppola, Samantha Guerrero, Ivan James, Alex Llorca, Estefania Mena, Thomas Ortiz, Martin Ortiz Tapia, Esteban Ortiz-Villacorta, Christopher Llewyn Ramirez, Xander Ramirez, Jocelyn Samano, Jonathan Uriostegui and Stephanie Viruet- BRAVO!

Chris Sargent and his orchestra are on the second level of the stage and while there are only eight of them, the sound they produce is amazing with the electronic music designed by Ethan Deppe. The lighting (Ryan O’Gara) and sound (Sarah Ramos) are perfect as are the props by Cassy Schillo. As usual, Drury Lane Oakbrook has taken a Broadway show to a new level, making it affordable and welcome to the entire Chicagoland area. Even if you are unfamiliar with the Sound Machine ( I think everyone knows “Rhythm Is Gonna Get You” and “Everlasting Love” , you will find yourself getting into the sound and feeling the beat. When you witness Gloria’s accident, you will feel her pain and when she comes back, you will feel her joy and triumph! I know that I did, and I know that when the last number is done, you will be “On Your Feet”!

“On Your Feet : The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan” will continue Thru – Mar 22nd with performances as follows: