My Review: New Broadway Musical: 'Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York)

The show: “Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York)

What makes it special?: The hit musical from London makes its Broadway bow, after a stop in A.R.T. in Cambridge, Mass. The show stars Christiani Pitts and Sam Tutty, the latter who was a sensation in the Brit production. (He previously won the Olivier Award for his starring role in “Dear Evan Hansen” there.)

Pitts, who starred in the musical “King Kong,” is new to the U.S. production, and is also terrific in this two-actor, romantic comedy. It also introduces two exceptional new musical talents: Jim Barne and Kit Buchan who wrote the show and its music and lyrics. The musical is directed and choreographed by Tim Jackson (who also oversaw the show in London).Tutty has been with the show since its inception.

What’s it about?: It’s a relatively simple rom-com of opposites attracting (eventually). A naive, upbeat, ever-energetic young Brit named Dougal arrives in New York City for his estranged father’s second wedding. (His father split before he was born and the 20ish son is over the moon to have been invited to the wedding and to finally meet him.)

When cynical Robin, the Brooklyn-born-and-raised sister of the young bride, picks him up from the JFK —literally bumping into each other — they embark on a confectionate, affectionate journey of high spirits, delightful humor, a bit of romance and surprisingly touching sentiment.

And the cake:? Yes, they do carry a cake across New York. (It’s an errand to pick up the cake by Robin for the sister’s wedding — and Dougal insistently tags along.) But it’s not so much about the cake and its fate. It’s about the back stories of both of these characters and how they connect.

Audiences will be charmed by the odd-couple pairing and especially the 27-year-old Tutty — in a star-making performance. Tutty has the enthusiasm and charm of s spaniel puppy. He’s sweetly carefree, tirelessly upbeat and utterly irresistible. His Dougal may be the most wide-eyed and wondrous NYC tourist ever. (His NYC references comically come from NYC-set films like “Home Alone” 2 and “Ghostbusters” and his sense of geography is hysterically lacking, too. )

Such naiveness could have worn thin very fast if it wasn't for the delicious takes and comic timing by Tutty. But the humor wouldn’t be half of what it is if not for Pitts’ droll, eyeball-rolling, seen-it-all reactions and deliveries.

Her journey from annoyed, to less-annoyed to a having a special bond with this tourist lad is beautifully calibrated and before the first act is over you will be rooting for the boy. Dougal eventually wears Robin down without wearing us out, which is no small feat for New Yorkers who have a low tolerance for tourist overload.

Yet there’s something tender and vulnerable beneath both their dueling masks of enthusiasm and reserve and that’s what makes the musical so appealing. It would have perhaps been better to have made the pretty-slight-if-you-stop-to-think-about-it show a long one act instead of a two-hour-plus (including intermission). But one supposes the two actors need somewhat of a breather after the first hour — and the high-spirited act-one closer.

The second act turns more serious as we get to know each a bit deeper, discover their secrets and understand their particular plights better. And a plot twister gives an added dimension to what seemed to be a rather routine rom-com.

The show’s design, also by Gilmour, is simple, yet clever, giving the characters’ baggage a literal but inventive take.

For those who tire of a jangling rock score here the music is accessible, melodic, poppy and fun . But for me, what elevates the show is the sheer virtuosity and tons of charm of the two actors. I couldn't wait to urge my friends to see the show and not overlook it just because it’s not based on a familiar source or features any “name” actors.

Who will like it?: Romantics. Those wishing for more music and comedy in their musical comedies.

Who won’t?: Cynics. Those wanting more production bang for their buck. But they’ll miss out on discovering a bright new star.

For the kids?: Teens will adore it: sweet, funny with just the right amount of hipness.

Thoughts on leaving the parking lot?: Following “Maybe Happy Ending” there are now two enchanting romantic musical comedies on Broadway, proving modest shows with heart still have a place here.

Info: The show is playing at the Longacre Theatre, located at 220 West 48th St. in the Theater District. The show runs approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, including one intermission. Official information, performance schedules, and ticket options are available on the show’s website at twostrangersmusical.com