Chenoweth soars in manic On the Twentieth Century

The effervescent revival of the 1978 musical comedy On the Twentieth Century that just steamed into the American Airlines Theater marks a bewitching Broadway return for Tony-and Emmy Award-winner Kristen Chenoweth as 1930s Hollywood diva Lily Garland.

The Roundabout Theater production that opened on Sunday night is a sizzling, sumptuous entertainment that pairs Chenoweth with a suavely roguish Peter Gallagher. Chenoweth is a petite powerhouse in the prima donna role of Lily, originated on Broadway by Madeline Kahn.

Director Scott Ellis has reimagined the show with kinetic, retro-perfect sophistication and style. The original 1978 musical comedy had a book and witty lyrics by Betty Comden and Adolph Green, and a rhythmic score by Cy Coleman that spoofed over-the-top musical styles, notably operetta.