‘Folies’ still putting best foot forward

Joe Delaney

Friday, Jan. 4, 2002 | 8:31 a.m.

The Tropicana's new edition of "The Best of the Folies Bergere" is actually the 18th edition, the fourth under the aegis of Jerry Jackson, who has been associated with "Folies" since 1966.

Jackson has been responsible for conception, choreography and direction of the past four editions. The latest "Best of ..." is actually his "Best" to date.

A true renaissance man, Jackson is also an expert at costume design, composing music and writing lyrics, evident in the present edition. But he is also one of the best at using color, lights and lighting design. He has few peers when it comes to accomplishing more with the least expenditure.

The capacious room was full at the show caught, and the audience was responsive throughout. The excellent pacing gave one the feeling it was over too soon. The actual running time at the show caught was one hour, 25 minutes.

Comedian and juggler Wally Eastwood is the star, an incredible juggler, fastest in our ken, whether working with clubs, hats or balls. Prior to his finale -- where he played a medley of popular songs by bouncing balls on a special keyboard -- he chatted with the audience, a nice personal touch. He spoke about his dual heritage (American redneck father and Mexican mother), very funny stuff.

"Heavenly Bodies" opened the show with Chris Nicholson and Stephanie Shaw, the new adagio duo, and the lovely "Folies" showgirls. Lead singer Traci Ault and most of the company followed in the "Paris Latin" scene. Ault is also relatively new, a strong addition, as is lead male singer Paul May, who also served as host.

"An Invitation to the Ball" led into "Bal au Versailles, 1860" and ended with "The Royal Forest in Winter." Next came "La Belle Epoque," which included an exciting, updated and enhanced "Can Can." The next stop in time was "The French Riviera, 1925," featuring Ault and May and bathing beauties.

"Hollywood Glamour, 1930" was followed by "Jitterbugs," "Cool Jazz" and a "Striptease" that was more of a disappearing act. Eastwood's 15 minutes preceded an all-new, extremely strong 20-minute finale in 10 segments. Bravos, all!

Starting year 43 at the Tropicana in high gear augurs well for the show's fifth decade and further.