Chris Ramirez

Repertory Company HS for Theatre Arts, grade 10

[title of show] is an extraordinary musical about two playwrights named Jeff and Hunter who have just three weeks to finish a musical. Their creative process is hilarious as they stumble over lyrics, scenes, and everything the Broadway world has to throw at them. The play follows the characters from the planning stages to Broadway … with a little help from YouTube along the way.

[title of show]is actually based on the lives of stars and creators Hunter Bell and Jeff Bowen. This back-stage musical is clever enough for the Broadway insiders, but strong enough to entertain audience members newer to the scene. However, [title of show] is not your typical night at the theatre. The songs are filled with curses (think Avenue Q without the puppets). With only a keyboard and an almost bare stage, the songs and staging quickly make you forget the big Broadway extravaganzas going on all over the theatre district.

I loved that all of the characters had quirky relationships with each other. Their anger and love spilled out at times onstage, helping the audience to identify with their situations. Supporting characters Heidi and Susan are hilarious as friends of Jeff and Hunter. Susan Blackwell (playing Susan) is one of the most outrageous actresses I have ever seen. Her character is portrayed as the most sarcastic actress in town and her one-liners are hysterical. Her song, "Die Vampire, Die!" is one of the craziest numbers I've ever seen and I laughed myself dizzy while she tore it up, singing about the importance of fighting against self-doubt.

[title of show] is successful because it tells a great story and never lets you forget that these people are struggling to be onstage. I was amazed at the energy that the four actors put out to keep the audience interested. What struck me the most was the central theme of following your dreams, despite the obstacles that may get in your way.

[title of show] is not for all ages (due to mature content and language), but I loved it as a teenager. I give a great deal of credit to Jeff and Hunter for pursuing their dreams and getting this unique show to Broadway. [title of show] is the kind of production we all feel we could create if we had a lot of talent and determination. It leaves you humming a little cursed filled tune all the way home.

[title of show] with music and lyrics by Jeff Bowen and book by Hunter Bell at the Lyceum Theatre. Directed and choreographed by Michael Berresse with musical direction and arrangements by Larry Pressgrove.

COMMENTS:

I thought this review was well written and gave me a good sense of how this play went. [title of show] seems like a fun and funny show! After reading this review i'd definitely consider going to see it!

sarah.abdalla@yahoo.com