Theatre Raleigh Hits One Out of the Park with Bull Durham

Way back in 1988, MGM’s Bull Durham, a story about love, baseball, and the surprising ways in which they can intersect, delighted audiences. Now, that same charming story is back . . . and with a fun musical twist. Theatre Raleigh, which has long proven itself to be a forward-thinking, innovative force in the theatrical world, is currently running Bull Durham: A New Musical, directed by Marc Bruni. 

This home run production features writing by none other than the film’s original screenwriter, Ron Shelton, as well as engaging music and lyrics by Susan Werner. And, because the story takes place in Durham, it’s been fittingly staged at the Reynolds Industries Theater at Duke University.

This roomy but surprisingly intimate space is just a stone’s throw away from Duke’s gorgeous chapel, and just walking into the venue is a treat. It’s also a nice, ingenious reminder of the story’s setting . . . a way to bring the musical to life before the curtains even open.

 And, when those curtains do open, viewers are instantly transported to a baseball-centered world, one where the stadium lights are always on and always visible in the background, a subtle, effective nod, courtesy of set designer Derek McLane, to the sport at the heart of the story.

Audiences are quickly introduced to sultry, sensual Annie, portrayed by an alluring Carmen Cusack. Annie is a devout member of what she terms “the church of baseball,” and her seasonal sacrifice requires her to seduce, educate, and elevate one Durham Bulls player per season. In this particular season, she’s set her sights on the boisterous, unpredictable “Nuke,” hilariously portrayed by John Behlmann. The only problem is that Annie’s been upstaged by Crash, a dashing Nik Walker, who has been called in to help rein in Nuke and propel the team toward success. Actually, that’s not the only problem. The growing, undeniable attraction between Annie and Crash also causes some tension . . . as well as some heat, romance, and fun.

Speaking of fun, nothing could top Joshua Bergasse’s daring (and delightfully dangerous) choreography. In his capable hands, ball players twirl bats like batons and leap high into the air in a careful choreographic medley that blends rugged athleticism with ballet and acrobatics. Susan Werner’s thoughtful, catchy lyrics complement these feats and propel both the central story and its subplots forward.

One of those subplots involves young Millie, a free, easygoing gal, who catches the attention of the religious, straight-laced Jimmy (Andrew Poston), a failed ballplayer turned manager. As Millie, the adorable Ashlyn Maddox easily wins her way (and her character’s way) into the hearts of viewers, and she shares an undeniable, sweet chemistry with Poston. Their romantic interactions, however, play second string to the steamy, tense interplays between Cusack and Walker, both of whom have the charm and vocal talents to keep viewers hanging onevery word they speak or sing.

Fun, original, and filled with unforgettable songs and characters, this musical is a smash hit. Theatre Raleigh has, once again, hit it out of the park, and this reviewer has a strong hunch that their tagline–”see it before it goes to Broadway–” is far from false advertising. 

The show runs through September 22nd, and tickets are available here.

-Susie Potter