The show: “42nd Street” at Goodspeed opera House in East Haddam

What is it?: Revival stage version based on the 1932 novel by Bradford Ropes and the 1933 motion picture .

What makes it special?: Tap dancing. And more tap dancing. Then more tap dancing.

What’s it about? Backstage musical of a young girl from the sticks moving to New York City with dreams of making it in show biz, landing in the chorus of a Broadway-bound show. When the leading lady breaks her leg and young miss steps into the role at the least minute to save the show and becomes an overnight star

Sounds familiar: I suppose at one point it wasn't such a cliche but it sure is now. One can can play it with a wink or play it straight, This version is sort of in-between the two styles. But with the tired, unfunny dialogue and stock characters and lame plot, I’m not sure any approach will make it totally fresh— but there seems to be a darker tale lurking underneath.

Darker? The show has some darker elements based on the Ropes book. Don’t forget this was the same period that cynical shows like “The Front Page” and “Chicago” (the play in which the musical is based) were around. When the film “42nd Street” came out we were in the Great Depression and desperation was in the air. Also note that the film — which starred Ruby Keeler , Dick Powell and Ginger Rogers — was a pre-code film musical and is considerably sinister, sensual and sexual.

And this version?: Michael Carnahan’s clever sets and Shawn Duan’s terrific projections suggests a grittier version to explore. A special nod here to Duan, whose level of projections is so high that it just might solve Goodspeed’s space problems around its tiny stage (and even tinier wing space).

So how was it overall? Without a special take the script remains one that is filled with cliche and corn. Sometimes an actor transcends the material, such as Eloise Kropp as Annie, a performer in the faux Broadway-bound musical that the story revolves around. Ms. Kropp can made dumb jokes kinda funny and whose singing and spirit gave every scene she was in a boost

And others?: Solid pros all. Great to see Kate Baldwin in anything and she sings divinely. Ditto Max von Essen whose big title song finally comes at the end of the show. (Pity his character isn’t allowed to sing more. Essen’s voice is always a pleasure..) Carina-Kay Louchiey as newbie Peggy Sawyer can dance amazingly well but is given awful clothes and wig and only shines instead of dazzles in her star turn.

The real stars of the show are the hard-working tap tap tap dancing chorus. And Randy Skinner, the director-choreograoher , who knows this show better than anyone.

Who will like it?: Fans of tap dancing, natch. Those who yearn for Goodspeed’s more nostalgic shows.

Who won’t: Those hoping for something a little more special. And of course those who loath corn and cliches — and tap dancing.

For the kids?: Young ones might like the dancing and connect to the simple plot. Older ones will roll their eyes.

Thoughts on leaving the parking lot: It’s understandable that after the pandemic and slow return of audiences Goodspeed turns to an obvious choice. It’s well done enough. So why do I leave feeling so empty?