THEATER REVIEW : ‘Hot & Cole’: Full of Him and Vigor

COSTA MESA —  Cole Porter’s life was red hot, at least for the first half. Born with a silver spoon in his mouth, and a golden talent, he established his niche on Broadway in his early 20s and turned out hit after hit from then on. That streak continued even after a spirited horse threw him, confining him to a wheelchair and leaving a bitterness that nonetheless never showed through his eternally optimistic lyrics and melodies.

Porter’s life is the basis of “Red Hot & Cole,” a sort of revue with a difference. More than just a collection of many of his songs, “Red Hot” has a book, conceived by Randy Strawderman and written by Strawderman, James Bianchi and Muriel McAuley.

It cleverly places Porter and his cohorts, in an earlier version of the jet set, at a series of parties at points throughout his history. While it doesn’t tell all, it definitely doesn’t whitewash the composer’s traumatic life.

And it is a joy to hear those Porter standards, and some less familiar tunes, in a worthy if uneven production directed by Phyllis Gitlin at Costa Mesa Civic Playhouse. Gitlin’s ace is keeping the party atmosphere at a high key, with absolutely authentic rhythms that place the action solidly in the correct periods.

If all of the voices aren’t exactly up to their task, most are, and they are always expertly matched to the material. Nann Brown’s feathery soprano is just right for “Who Said Gay Paree” and “Begin the Beguine,” and Scott Ratner’s light baritone perfectly suits “I’m a Gigolo” and “Ridin’ High.” As the composer, Ratner bears a resemblance to the young Porter and has an outgoing charm that illustrates both the silver spoon and the golden talent.

Most of the cast doubles as various celebrities that helped him fill out his lonely hours. Some are more successful than others. Christopher Steeves isn’t too far away from Moss Hart, and his interestingly versatile voice is impressive especially in “Wake Up and Dream.” Christopher Spencer is unconvincingly, among others, Clifton Webb, George Kaufman and Noel Coward, but his strong vocal treatment of “Let’s Do It” as Coward doing his own lyrics works well.

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Most impressive in the company is Pat Boldt, as Elsa Maxwell, Ethel Merman and Porter’s perennial hostess. Boldt, a statuesque blonde, resembles neither Maxwell nor Merman, but her musical comedy savvy and bright energy help hold the whole show together.

Following closely is Jill Wolff as Porter’s wife-of-convenience, Linda, who left him when he was on his feet but returned to care for him in his tragic last years; Wolff also handles the sleek “In the Still of the Night” with impeccable style.

Bob Goodwin, Jill Harper, Joe Hollingshead, Erin Lord, and Karen McCord admirably complete the energetic ensemble.

* “Red Hot & Cole,” Costa Mesa Civic Playhouse, 661 Hamilton St., Costa Mesa. Today through Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. Ends Sunday. $15. (714) 650-5269. Running time: 2 hours, 15 minutes.

Scott Ratner: Cole Porter

Jill Wolff: Linda Porter

Pat Boldt: Hostess, Elsa Maxwell, Ethel Merman

Nann Brown: Leading Lady

Bob Goodwin: Monty Woolley, Ray Goetz

Jill Harper: Irene Castle, Beguine Partner

Joe Hollingshead: Waiter

Erin Lord: Sara Murphy, Dorothy Parker, Hedda Hopper, Bella Spewack

Karen McCord: Starlet

Christopher Spencer: Clifton Webb, English Soldier, George Kaufman, Sam Katz, Noel Coward

Christopher Steeves: Moss Hart, Paul, Beguine Partner

A Costa Mesa Civic Playhouse production of the musical by Randy Strawderman, James Bianchi and Muriel McAuley. Musical concepts and arrangements by Dougee Zeno. Produced by Rex Tompkins. Directed by Phyllis Gitlin. Musical direction: Anita Grossman. Choreography/costumes: Larry Watts. Lighting design: Bob Ashby. Stage manager: Barbara Ashby.