“Fearless physical comedy… every bit made her a standout”

Natalie Charlé Ellis brought fearless physical comedy to Forbidden Broadway, twirling around Mr. Foster like a human pole and diving headfirst into each spoof with infectious glee. Whether playing a Smash-obsessed Katharine McPhee or suddenly flipping into a rigid Mary Poppins, Ellis’ commitment to every bit made her a standout in the frenetic revue.

It was her take on Audra McDonald as Bess, though, that truly brought the house down. Too funny — almost insulting if it weren’t so uncannily spot-on — Ellis nailed the delicate line between affectionate parody and razor-sharp roast, making each impression land with joyful, knowing delight.

—JK, JK’s TheatreScene