‘Motown The Musical’ hits all the right notes

My musical theater experience goes back decades thanks to my mom who exposed me to nearly every show that included a tour stop in San Francisco.

And because my dad worked for the airlines, we could even sneak away for a New York weekend of nonstop Broadway shows.

So to say that “Motown The Musical” ranks among the best musicals I have ever seen is saying lots about the Denver production that plays The Buell Theatre through April 19. For Baby Boomers, it’s a musical tour de force with hit after hit that keeps your toes tapping and your lips syncing throughout the performance.

I overheard more than one attendee saying, “I saw this show on Broadway and this cast is better.”

Directed by Charles Randolph-Wright, “Motown The Musical” is the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy’s journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye and so many more.

Featuring more than 40 classic hits such as “My Girl” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” “Motown The Musical” tells the story behind the hits as Diana, Smokey, Berry and the whole Motown family fight against the odds to create the soundtrack of change in America. Motown shattered barriers, shaped our lives and made us all move to the same beat.

Single tickets start at $25. To charge by phone, call Denver Center Ticketing Services at 303-893-4100 (TTY: 303.893.9582). Groups of 10 or more: 303-446-4829. Purchase in person at The Denver Center Ticket Office, located at the Helen Bonfils Theatre Complex lobby. Buy and print online at www.Denvercenter.org.