North Shore Music Theatre's "The Cher Show" Electrifies Glitter, Glamour, and Sparkles

Don’t fear life and love yourself.

North Shore Music Theatre presents The Cher Show, a jukebox musical about the life and career of singer-actress Cher. As the starlet makes her way to fame, she faces roadblocks from her husband, Sonny Bono, who tries to control Cher’s every decision.

I was thinking that The Cher Show would be your average singer biography musical, but no, this show is more than that. I learned a lot about Cher. North Shore Music Theatre’s production of The Cher Show is a show-stopping, glitter-tastic, and transformative piece that highlights the road to success, while continuing to be your most authentic self.

Not one, but three actresses play our lead showgirl, Cher. Sara Gettelfinger plays Star (present-day Cher), while Charissa Hogeland (Lady) and Madeline Hudelson (Babe) portray the iconic singer in her younger days.

All three actresses excel in their roles, from phenomenal singing, emotion, and their depiction of the real-life figure. Gettelfinger has a tremendous stage presence, whose voice has a stunning quality, particularly in “The Way of Love.” Hogeland achieves tremendous ferocity, while Hudelson rounds the character with childlike vulnerability.

The Cher Show follows one of my favorite storylines: what if you could talk to different versions of yourself from the past? What conversations would you have? As the Star narrates the tale, the trio often expresses their views of the situation together, from her start into fame in her teen years, her relationship with Sonny, and figuring out career decisions.

Filling the shoes of the (not so tall) Sonny Bono, Frankie Marasa 5th does a fantastic job in his depiction. Sonny controlled Cher to the point where she wasn’t allowed a social life. Sarcasm was a notable ingredient in Cher and Sonny’s relationship.

Angie Schworer merits praise for her strong depiction of Cher’s mother, the late Georgia Holt. Georgia’s fierce and devoted love for Cher is a beautiful testament to moms everywhere. Cher would not be where she is without Georgia’s advice.

No small part exists in the theater; that’s what I always say. The ensemble for The Cher Show fills tremendous dance shoes, costumes, and supporting roles. Roles include Bob Mackie (Dan Fenaughty), Gregg Allman (Brenton Cosier), and Bob Mackie’s Assistant (Alfie Parker Jr.). The talent electrifies across the stage. Everyone is having fun, and that’s what matters.

Glitter, Glamour, and sparkles! The Cher Show is a fashion show. Coordinated by Rebecca Glick and the NSMT wardrobe team, the costumes are gorgeous. They highlight Cher’s iconic style. Actors undergo quick changes at lightning speed.

NSMT’s The Cher Show is one busy time with several tech hands operating sound, light cues, and set changes. Sara Andreas’ choreography is evident in her dynamite work with the cast. And composer Milton Granger leads the live orchestra, recreating songs like “If I Could Turn Back Time,” “Believe,” and “Song of the Lonely.”

Singer biography stories feel all the same to me, but The Cher Show is something different. Kevin P. Hill institutes impressive direction in every scene. His eye for this transformative story soars off the stage.

This show hit me on a personal level. The Cher Show has several meaningful messages about leading your own way and being yourself. The past cannot be erased, but every version of yourself is important.

Audiences had the time of their lives, even getting up to dance. Cher is an iconic celebrity who has been a saving grace for fans. The Cher Show performs at NSMT until Nov. 2. Trust me when I say, you don’t want to miss this spectacular show.