TeenTix reviews Spinning Tree Theatre’s The World Goes ‘Round

TeenTix KC is an organization that helps provide KC youth with access to live stage performances. As part of that work, some up-and-coming  ‘Press Corps Members’ are tackling their first reviews—building up a next generation of critical, celebratory voices. Today, we’re thrilled to share Alexandria Mondaine’s take on Spinning Tree Theatre’s The World Goes ‘Round. Find out more about TeenTix here.

Slick your hair and wear your buckle shoes! The World Goes ‘Round sweeps audiences into a vibrant, nostalgic, and emotionally rich journey through the legendary catalog of John Kander and Fred Ebb. Featuring songs that have defined Broadway for decades, the revue celebrates every high, every low, and everything in between.

The World Goes ‘Round is a musical revue celebrating the iconic works of Kander and Ebb, the legendary songwriting duo behind some of Broadway’s most beloved musicals. Rather than telling one continuous story, the production weaves together songs exploring love, loss, ambition, humor, and resilience. Through heartfelt ballads, comedic numbers, and energetic ensemble performances, the revue reminds audiences that no matter what life throws our way, the world keeps turning.

I walked into the theater expecting a fun night of music, but I left with a new appreciation for just how timeless Kander and Ebb’s songs really are. Directed by Michael Grayman-Parkhurst and Andrew Grayman-Parkhurst, Spinning Tree Theatre’s production transforms what could have been a simple revue into an engaging musical journey through Kander and Ebb’s remarkable career. Featuring ten immensely talented performers (Azaria Martin, Khloe Brown, Maggie Cain, Ben Kuykendall, Allison Penland, Sam Robinson, Isaac Schupp, Caroline Shaw, Marilou Tirao, and Desmond Walker III) the production showcases a cast whose chemistry and versatility keep every number fresh, heartfelt, and captivating.

The technical artistry is equally impressive. The onstage band, led by music director Pamela Baskin-Watson alongside Bryan Hicks, Louis Neal, Alfred Pearson, Gerald Turner, and Blake Vignery, becomes an integral part of the performance rather than remaining hidden in the pit. Watching the musicians perform alongside the actors fills the theater with infectious energy, making every song feel immediate and alive. The lighting design beautifully complements each moment, shifting from soft, melancholy hues during quieter ballads to vibrant washes of color during the revue’s biggest ensemble numbers.

The costumes, while visually engaging and effective in capturing the spirit of Kander and Ebb’s world, felt slightly inconsistent at times, with certain looks not always aligning cohesively across the production. However, this inconsistency did little to distract from the overall energy and charm of the performance.

The performers consistently rise to the occasion. Ben Kuykendall and Sam Robinson deliver a deeply moving rendition of I Don’t Remember You/A Day Goes By, allowing the audience to feel every ounce of heartbreak in the lyrics. On the opposite end of the emotional spectrum, Marilou Tirao commands the stage in All That Jazz. Tirao’s voice is so warm it feels like a hug, wrapping around the audience with effortless confidence, while the ensemble matches her charisma with lively choreography and infectious enthusiasm.

Another standout is Allison Penland, whose rendition of Maybe This Time is both vocally stunning and emotionally authentic. Penland’s powerful vocals are matched by nuanced acting that makes every lyric feel deeply personal. Opening the evening with the title number, Desmond Walker III immediately captures the audience’s attention with a voice as melodic and graceful as a bird in flight. Combined with his commanding stage presence and expressive acting, Walker leaves a lasting impression throughout the evening.

Caroline Shaw also shines, particularly in How Lucky Can You Get. During Shaw’s performance, the theater grew so still you could hear a pin drop, a testament to her captivating stage presence and beautifully controlled vocals. It was one of the evening’s most memorable moments.

While each performer has an opportunity to shine individually, the production is at its strongest when the entire company comes together. Their vibrant chemistry, gorgeous harmonies, and undeniable joy make every ensemble number feel electric, creating the kind of theatrical magic that reminded me why live theater is so incredible.

From the soaring vocals and heartfelt performances to the exceptional musicians and thoughtful technical design, The World Goes ‘Round is a breathtaking celebration of Kander and Ebb’s enduring legacy. Spinning Tree Theatre doesn’t simply perform these beloved songs; it breathes new life into them. By the end of the night, I wasn’t ready for it to be over, and I have a feeling audiences won’t be either.

I had such a fun time seeing The World Goes ‘Round! Huge thank you to TeenTix KC for the opportunity to experience this incredible production. I’m so grateful to be able to see amazing theater, support local artists, and share my thoughts on performances like this.