Opened: March 3, 2005

Book by: Jeffrey Lane

Music & Lyrics by: David Yazbek

Original Broadway Cast: John Lithgow, Norbert Leo Butz, Sherie Rene Scott, Joanna Gleason, Gregory Jbara, Sara Gettelfinger, Timothy J. Alex, Andrew Asnes, Roxane Barlow, Stephen Campanella, Joe Cassidy, Julie Connors, Rachel de Benedet, Laura Marie Duncan, Sally Mae Dunn, Tom Galantich, Jason Gillman, Amy Heggins, Grasan Kingsberry, Michael Paternostro & Rachelle Rak

Based on the 1988 MGM film of the same name starring Michael Caine and Steve Martin, this con musical has its ups and downs.

After meeting on a train on their way to the French Riviera, con-men Freddy Benson (Norbert Leo Butz) and Lawrence Jameson (John Lithgow) attempt to work together, but realize they’re better on their own. The two men strike a challenge to see who can con Christine Colgate (Sherie Rene Scott) out of $50,000.

While Butz, Lithgow and Scott all charm in their roles and cause hilarity to ensue, everyone else is somewhat forgotten. Supporting roles like Muriel (Joanna Gleason) and Andre (Gregory Jbara) don’t have enough meat to be memorable. However, Jolene Oakes (Sara Gettelfinger) steals the show in her two scenes.

The score is jazzy and leaves lasting songs.

Final say: There’ve been better cons. ★★★☆☆