RARE OPPORTUNITY AT ENCORES!

ANYONE CAN WHISTLE at City Center's Encores! is a highly entertaining presentation of one of Broadway's quirkier footnotes.  The brilliant Sondheim score shimmers, as always.  The story is odd and at times interesting, even whimsical--but is really more ideas on display than a book that works. Still the staging is engaging and the choreography is a delight.  And of course, when you put Donna Murphy, Sutton Foster and Raul Esparza on that stage with those songs . . . it's musical theater heaven!  Everyone who's seen a Sondheim revue knows the title tune, and also the achingly lovely "With So Little to Be Sure Of," here done to perfection by Foster and Esparza.  But "A Parade in Town,"  "Everybody Says Don't," and "There Won't Be Trumpets" (among others) show that even an early Sondheim stumble is treasure chest of gems.  From start to finish, Donna Murphy rules with an iron fist and giddy humor--and an incredible set of pipes.  The always dependable Edward Hibbert does well with what at times is a thankless role.  And the gifted ensemble of dancer-singers do amazing work, especially in the 2nd Act ballet.  (Kudos especially to Cora's "Boys" who are indeed on their toes--literally!  If you've ever been curious about ANYONE CAN WHISTLE, go see it--it is doubtful that you'll ever see a better production of it, and it really is an enjoyable and at times thought-provoking evening. Now thru April 11th at City Center, West 55th btwn 6th & 7th Avenues, 212-581-1212.