Daniel Radcliffe in "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying". Photo Credit: Sara Krulwich.

Climbing the corporate ladder has never been a facile task.  How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying is an entertaining classic Broadway musical which has returned to the Great White Way in a new elegant and star-studded production.  It follows J. Pierrepont (Ponty) Finch (Harry Potter star, Daniel Radcliffe), as he navigates the World Wide Wicket Company through devious ploys, sycophancy, and wits in an attempt to become a successful businessman.  Along the way, Ponty must avoid the envious wrath of Bud Frump, evade the bubble-headed Hedy LaRue, and please the conflicted boss Mr. Biggley (Night Court’s John Larroquette).

I rushed through the New York City traffic to the matinee performance at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre, plopping breathlessly into my seat just as the auditorium darkened.  I was so relieved that I didn’t miss anything.  As Radcliffe emerged, the audience, as zealous as I, erupted with applause.  I must admit that I was drawn to this show because of him too.  I only knew him as Harry Potter and was curious how the young wizard would fare as a triple-threat.  Needless to say, I was impressed by his performance.  Although, I did not expect I would be so spell-bounded (pun intended) by his presence.

The show itself is a timeless, although it has been revamped into a lavish revival.  The score is very catchy and you’ll find yourself humming its tunes as you waltz out of the theater.  The scenery is geometric and colorful.  I especially loved the tasteful period-style costumes which help to set a care-free and fun atmosphere.

Radcliffe and the rest of the cast are nothing short of perfection!  Radcliffe is perfect for the role of Ponty and very reminiscent of Robert Morse, who played the title character in the original production and the movie adaption.  Though his voice and singing leaves a bit to be desired, his acting chops and flawless dancing compensates.  John Larroquette is hilarious as Mr. Biggley.  He’s the full package, with clever line delivery and a profound baritone.   The chemistry between Radcliffe and Larroquette is electric.  When the two combine for a cheerful duet of “Grand Old Ivy,” it’s truly magical.  Other standouts included Christopher Hanke as Bud Frump and Rose Hemingway as Rosemary.  Hanke creates a villain that you just love to hate, but still understands his plight.  Rose Hemingway is adorable as Ponty’s love interest.  She plays Rosemary as a strong woman who’s determined to get her man and has a commanding voice to match.

How to Succeed has made a comeback at the right time.  In an economically unstable world, moving up in society is much harder.  The show puts a humorous spin on the workings of a big corporation.  We can’t help but root for Ponty for he represents our own ambitions.  Though many of us probably would not attempt a feat like Ponty, we all love a good story about a hero much like ourselves.

Don’t miss the opportunity to catch Daniel Radcliffe before his final performance in January.