AISLE SAY New York

MAURICE HINES: TAPPIN' THROUGH LIFE

Written by and Starring Maurice Hines
Featuring The Manzari Brothers
Directed by Jeff Calhoun
New World Stages
Official Website

Reviewed by David Spencer

Does one even need to review a show called Maurice Hines: Tappin’ Throgh Life? The 71 year young survivor of what began as Hines, Hines and Dad; when Dad passed on became The Hines Brothers; and when brother Gregory passed on became a solo act, tells anecdotes about show business, about his family, sings standards meaningful to his life and career and, above all, tap dances like the veteran master of the art he is.

            He’s backed up by the big band sounds of the all-female Diva Orchestra; and he’s abetted by the younger, extraordinary Manzari Brothers, with whom he dances in tandem and in friendly competition; and to whom he occasionally just gives over, to let them do their brother act thing.

            Deep insights in Hines’ autobiographical narrative there are none, but it alternates pleasantly between family history and star-studded anecdote and his is such an easy presence that you have very little choice but to smile all the way through.


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