Three stars
Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre;
directed by Eddie Curry;
choreographed by Doug King

When Showboat came out in 1927, it heralded a new era of theater — one that dealt with social issues and had characters with some depth, as opposed to the entertainment-only productions that were commonplace before. Its iconic songs are still well-known. B&B presents a sound performance of this classic. Gerald Atkins’ rendition of “Ol’ Man River” is just as deep and rich as you expect the staple to be. Elizabeth Broadhurst (Julie), Cynthia Thomas (Queenie), Erin West (Magnolia) and Atkins (Joe) team up for a satisfying “Can’t Help Lovin’ Dat Man.” Douglas E. Stark is adorable as Cap’n Andy and Lynne Perkins is appropriately shrill (“An-DY!”) as his wife. Christopher Vettel as Gaylord seemed ill-matched to West’s Magnolia, though. He came across as too smarmy for her young sweetness. Only when the couple aged did they seem better suited. Costumes (the bustles!) are glorious thanks to Brian Horton and Doug King’s choreography meshes well with the rest of the show. Through May 11; 317-872-9664.