Way back in 2005 a little jukebox musical first premiered on Broadway telling the story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons called Jersey Boys. This musical became a huge critical and financial success going on to win 4 Tony Awards and have over 4000 performances. Despite becoming a phenomenon it somehow eluded me and I had never seen it until this Friday with Pioneer Theatre Company’s new production. While I don’t have anything to compare the it to I left feeling energized and entertained, and I can see why it sets the standard for biographical jukebox musicals.
Jersey Boys has music by Bob Gaudio (the Bob from the band) and Lyrics by Bob Crewe. Of course it features the many hits from the The Four Seasons like “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Sherry,” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You” which are all a lot of fun to hear performed on stage; however, the real standout of the show is the book by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice. The problem a lot of biographic jukebox musicals have is they are so predictable in their rags-to-riches formula and then take themselves far too seriously. Jersey Boys sets itself apart from these copycats by being consistently funny and endearing throughout.
At PTC our 4 leads seem to understand this strength of the show and lean into the humor creating a believable chemistry as a group that makes us invested in what is happening to them. While they are all more convincing as older versions of the characters in act 2 they delivered the dialogue with terrific comic timing and the charm someone like a rockstar should have. Trevor James pulls off the falsetto needed for Frankie Valli but my favorite is Brent Thiessen as Nick.
I think Nick works the best because his section of the story is the most clearly defined. That’s one thing director Karen Azenberg could have emphasized more is making more obvious who is narrating each of the 4 acts. Nevertheless, they are all great in their roles, and like I said, the comedic elements kept it from feeling tired and cliched.
The technical elements of Jersey Boys at PTC is kept streamlined and simple with most of the backgrounds being stages, brick walls or a warehouse. The costumes are mostly various suits that are swapped in and out of quickly, but I wouldn’t have wanted anything more because the simplicity kept me focused on the actors on stage. The ensemble is also small but capable as they swap in and out of various roles. I particularly liked Timothy Aaron Cooper as ‘Joe Pesci and others’ who skillfully brings out the humor to any scene he is in.
The orchestra conducted by Phil Reno is always a standout at PTC, and they do an excellent job with these classic songs. There are times when the actors on stage are more convincing in “playing” the instruments than others but the actual orchestra is fantastic.
Adam Enrique Hollick and Daxton Bloomquist are also very strong as Tommy and Bob respectively although it feels like Tommy should have been far more grateful for Frankie literally saving him from prison than he was. Bloomquist did a good job capturing Bob’s subtle awkwardness so when he says he wants to stop performing in the band and just produce and write it isn’t a huge surprise.
Evidently down at Tuacahn they did a version of Jersey Boys with cleaned up language. While I have only seen this I prefer the more mature version as it feels authentic to the characters.
In the end, I’m grateful to Pioneer Theatre Company for giving me a terrific first time experience with Jersey Boys. The talented cast brought Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons to life with humor, humanity and terrific singing. You won’t want to take your eyes off of the stage! Jersey Boys is playing through Sept 28th and tickets can be purchased here.
Also the humor in this show makes it abundantly clear why the Clint Eastwood directed film adaptation failed so badly…
If you’d like me to review more theatre and appreciate what I do please check out the patreon here. You will find the patreon has many benefits including watch alongs with writers and actors of TV and films and more. Please take a look.
Hi theatre friends! I’ve got another quick update for you. I’ve had such a busy July it has all flown by and I certainly packed it in in this last week. Phew!
Make sure you check out my latest episode of OnStage Blog Theatre Podcast. We had director Toni Butler on and asked the tough question- is Into the Woods overrated?
Most of the other shows I saw I reviewed for UTBA but there are a few others so here is the update.
WAIT UNTIL DARK- COVEY CENTER FOR THE ARTS, PROVO
First up is Wait Until Dark at Covey Center for the Arts in Provo. As soon as I heard they were putting this on in their black box I knew it was a brilliant choice and it was. I can’t think of a show more perfect for a black box than Wait Until Dark. The only challenge is the space is small with exits oddly situated so it made the big surprise ending a little challenging but it was still a ton of fun with great performances. I haven’t seen that many thrillers on stage but I feel confident in saying Wait Until Dark is the best one ever. It builds tension so well and it’s so easy to get invested in Susan and her story. So good. You can read my full review for utba here. Wait Until Dark plays until August 17th and you can purchase tickets here.
MATILDA- DRAPER HISTORIC THEATER, DRAPER
I technically have already given my quick thoughts on this production of Matilda but it was the other cast called the Revolting Cast. With the invitation of the lead Rosie Darling I came to see the other Miracle Cast and it was super cute. It basically gives you everything you want from Matilda. Rosie is adorable in the role and I’m amazed that both of them can learn all these lines and not miss a beat. I also thought both Trunchbull’s were excellent with Boston Anglesey playing that role in this cast. I’ve realized after seeing this show so much recently my favorite number is “The Smell of Rebellion.” We don’t get many dishy villain songs any more on Broadway or in the movies and I think that’s why I really enjoy that one. I also thought it was staged very well here and they use the small stage to its full effect getting the choreography to be effective despite limited space. The adults in the other cast were probably stronger on the whole but it was still a fun time if you like Matilda (which everyone knows I have my issues with but it’s fun enough). Draper Historic is quickly becoming one of my favorite local theaters and you will definitely want to get season tickets here.
GREAT SALT LAKE FRINGE FESTIVAL- 2 SHOWS
Previous to this year I had only seen 1 play at the Great Salt Lake Fringe Festival. This year I had the opportunity to see 2 and they both proved to be a lot of fun. If you didn’t know Fringe is a workshopping festival and a chance to see new plays and theatrical experiences as they get developed by local playwrights and companies. The 2 I reviewed for UTBA are Wonderland Awaits and Hark! and the thing that makes me the most excited about these productions is I learned about 2 companies I was previously unfamiliar with- Salt Lake Children’s Theatre and the Salt Monster Theatre Company. You can read my reviews for both here and here. Fringe ends Aug 4th and you can find more information here.
AIDA- OGDEN MUSICAL THEATRE, OGDEN
I am sure there must be some explanation for why Aida is rarely done. Until they put it on at Ogden Musical Theatre (a new company to me!) I hadn’t seen it since the new Hale Center Theatre put it on in 2017 in Sandy. That’s crazy when I think of shows with similar casting requirements like Sister Act or Hairspray that are done so much. Let’s not wait 7 years to see this again!
It’s a shame because I really do love this musical. It’s such a beautiful love story between Aida and Radames- doomed love story- but honest and authentic with gorgeous songs like “Elaborate Lives” and “Written in the Stars.” I also think it balances the melodrama out well with some humor especially from Amneris and “My Strongest Suit.” If there is a weakness to the show it is in the villain and his songs like “Another Pyramid” and “Like Father, Like Son.”
At OMT they have 2 terrific leads with Alexsys Campbell and Jordan Strong as Aida and Radames. I also loved Allie White as Amneris. Some of the other casting was more mixed in both singing and acting but if the 3 leads are good that goes a long way in this musical. The sets (Marilyn Montgomery) and costumes (Stephanie Petersen) (and headpieces!) were also very impressive. The whole thing is directed by Mark Daniels and it deserves a more full house. I was so bummed to see so many empty seats. It is worth the drive to Ogden to be reminded the power of true love. Aida is playing through Aug 10th and you can purchase tickets here.
THE LITTLE MERMAID- EMPRESS THEATRE, MAGNA
If you follow my social media you know my reaction to this production of The Little Mermaid at The Empress blew up a bit. It wasn’t my favorite and even though I didn’ tag anyone involved it got seen by a lot of people. I never mean to be discouraging but I do have to be honest in my opinions- and it is just that my opinions.
The good aspects of this production is I think the Sebastian was very strong. Setu Lealaogta doesn’t try and imitate the Sebastian from the movie but gives the character their own flair and personality and I appreciate the costumes, particularly his were more of an homage to the film rather than a direct copy. It was kind of like The Little Mermaid meets Vegas which is fun. They even had aerolists performers which is ambitious for a small theater like this.
The problems came in the direction of Ariel and Eric. The program said this was Marcus Michalek’s first time acting and he is more of a dancer so I will try and give him some grace (this is why programs are very helpful!) but it was not the strongest performance. And Hannah Burke as Ariel has a decent voice but it was so rarely allowed to come forward. I was truly baffled by the decision to have her portray Ariel as a meek and softspoken rebellious daughter of Triton. I was in the first row and there were times I could barely hear her and it wasn’t just microphone problems. It was an acting choice even for her dramatic moments like “Part of Your World.” It was really strange and did not work for me and if Ariel doesn’t work it’s hard to salvage the production. I don’t even blame Burke because when she was allowed to actually sing I could hear some talent there. I guess give them credit for trying something different but it needs to be executed better than this was. But again, it’s just my opinion and every company has their misses. I look forward to The Empress’ next production of Fiddler on the Roof. The Little Mermaid plays until August 10th and you can find out more about the entire company here.
What have you been seeing? I would love to know! Aside from the shows I reviewed for UTBA I paid for all of these logged shows out of pocket. I’d love to cover as many local shows as possible but I need your help to do so. If you’d like me to review more theatre and appreciate what I do please check out the patreon here
Hi friends! I hope you have all been doing well. I have been very busy lately and admittedly took longer to get this post out than I should. My apologies but I have been reviewing for UTBA and keeping up on my social media with my out of theater reactions and more. Make sure you are following me on instagram for all of my life updates. I’ve also been having a blast with OnStage Blog bringing on my friend Jacks to do the episodes with! It’s a dream come true and our most recent episode was a ton of fun ranking community theater seasons.
FIDDLER ON THE ROOF- HIGH VALLEY ARTS, MIDWAY
Midway is a good hour drive for me so going up there to see a show is a challenge but the folks at High Valley Arts almost always make it worth my while. During the summer they have an outdoor theater that I love and the community spirit is wonderful. This year they put on Fiddler on the Roof and it was an outstanding production I feel privileged to have enjoyed.
Everyone involved at HVA should be proud because all aspects were wonderful from the costumes (Kristen Hughes) to the live fiddler (Daniel Clegg) to the dancing (Choreographer Christie Moulton) and sets. I love how the Tevye’s house set unfolded to make the small space work. Todd Beagley played Tevye with warmth and big heart. The cast felt like a family and the chemistry between all of them was evident. The highlight of the night was the staging of Tevye’s dream with all the spirits covered in a sheer fabric so they looked very ghostly. They also had very few microphone issues which can be a challenge in an outdoor theater. Director David Thorpe put on a very special night of theater I won’t soon forget.
Unfortunately this run has finished this weekend but they have many fun shows in the future and you can find out more here.
disaster- taylorsville arts council, TAYLORSVILLE
As much as I love seeing classics like Fiddler it’s also fun when I get to see a new to me play or musical. Such was the case with Taylorsville Arts Council’s production of Disaster! I must admit I’m not the biggest fan of parody so I went into this with a little trepidation but ended up having a fun time with it. This show is kind of like the movie Airplane! meets The Poseidon Adventure with a disco hit soundtrack. It’s a jukebox musical stacked full of songs from everybody from Carly Simon to Donna Summer and more.
At Taylorsville I was not feeling the show much in the first act. The jokes weren’t landing and the singing wasn’t the best. However, the main disaster happens at the end of Act 1 and things got a lot better in Act 2. The jokes are funnier and it becomes more than just a karaoke night. Rachel Bates was definitely the highlight of the cast as the diva singer Jackie but Rylee Smedshammer was also very funny as the gambling addict nun Sister Mary Downy. The most impressive part of the night was the way the costumes and sets evolved as the crisis got worse. I don’t have my program but the team did a wonderful job with those elements. I don’t think I’d ever see Disaster! again, but I’m glad I got a chance to check it off my list and it’s always good to try something new.
THE DROWSY CHAPERONE- SUGAR FACTOR PLAYHOUSE, MIDVALE
I first saw The Drowsy Chaperone back on Broadway in 2006 when it was in previews. I loved it’s dry wit and clever satire of musical theater then and I still love it not but it has been interesting to watch the show evolve over the years. The latest iteration was at Sugar Factory Playhouse. The Man in Chair was younger than I usually see for this musical but Devin Spann brought the necessary sarcasm to the role. I also enjoyed Monte Garcia as Aldolpho and Maria Becerra as Janet Van De Graaff.
The biggest surprise for the production was the change of “Bride’s Lament” from monkey to a bunny theme. I think such changes are bizarre when people cry ‘racism’ when that’s the whole point. They are critiquing and mocking the racist themes and stereotypes of the past. What exactly are they critiquing with bunny? Especially a white bunny. That makes no sense. I realize the company doesn’t have any choice in the matter when such changes are made but I do find it very silly that they purposefully make their comedies weaker in order to not offend an extremely small number of audience members. What’s next are we going to get rid of “Springtime for Hitler” from The Producers? It’s not embracing it. It’s mocking it. That’s the whole point. Anyway, it is what it is. You can read my whole review at utba here. You can find out more about Sugar Factory Playhouse here.
MATILDA- DRAPER HISTORIC THEATRE, DRAPER
Most people know I’m not the biggest Matilda: the Musical fan. I don’t hate it and it has some bops but I do think the book is very flawed. My main problem with it is the escapologist plot is totally unnecessary and takes up so much time in the overlong script. Everything we learn about Miss Honey and her trauma in those scenes we learn in the “My House” section and it just makes the whole show a bit of a slog. That said it’s super fun for kids and I get why they love doing it and being in it. I’m actually going to see both casts at Draper Historic but the first up was the Revolting cast and it was a lot of fun.
Lilian Anderson is a diminutive but spunky little Matilda and she brought a lot of personality to the role. I also thought Neena Roberts Warburton was wonderfully modest and shy as Miss Honey with a beautiful singing voice. The highlight of the night, however, was Trevor Casperson as Trunchbull. He’s not as big and looming as Trunchbull can be but he is very funny and “The Smell of Rebellion” was the best number with him and the kids bouncing off each other very well. Some of the other technical elements felt a little off the night I was there but still more than enough fun to recommend it especially if you enjoy Matilda. I’ll have my review for the Miracle cast next time. Matilda is still playing at Draper Historic through 7/27 and you can purchase tickets here.
THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME- MURRAY ARTS COUNCIL, MURRAY
It’s interesting because by accident I ended up having a Disney week last week at the theater. I can be hit and miss with these Disney adaptations but all 3 I attended were outstanding and the first out of the gate was The Hunchback of Notre Dame at Murray Arts at the Murray Amphitheater. I’ve said it many times that this is one of the rare screen to stage adaptations that actually improves upon the movie sanding off much of the film’s flaws and adding much needed context and backstory. This production in Murray is particularly impressive because they have a full orchestra and a 30 person choir accompanying all the performances! When do you get to see that in community theater? Not often! You can read the rest of my thoughts at UTBA here. Hunchback is playing through 7/27 and you can purchase tickets here.
NEWSIES- SYRACUSE ARTS COUNCIL, SYRACUSE
Next in my Disney week was Newsies at Syracuse Arts Council. I have a lot of nostalgia tied up in this show as the film was a favorite of mine as a pre-teen. Fortunately they did a fantastic job at Syracuse and I was so relieved for them that the technical issues they had opening night were mostly gone. Everything went off without a many problems which is what you like to see. I also really appreciate the choreography by Kayley and Kelsey Turner and especially that they included the “Seize the Day” newspaper dance section which is so iconic to this show.
I also really enjoyed the set and how it was maneuvered around to create different staircases and settings. The costumes all felt on period down to the newsboy hats and messenger bags and winning performances by the entire cast. Newsies at Syracuse has finished its run but you can find out about future productions here.
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST- COTTONWOOD HEIGHTS ARTS COUNCIL, COTTONWOOD HEIGHTS
Beauty and the Beast is of course another show I have a lot of nostalgia for. Both because I love the film but also because I saw the Broadway show with my Grandma and cousin Lisa on our special trip in 2000. It is definitely one of the best screen to stage adaptations by Disney and I was thrilled when I heard Cottonwood Heights was putting it on (they did a terrific job with the marketing for this show making it look very appealing.) Fortunately this is a case with my expectations being completely met if not more so. What an incredible night of theatre!
You really can’t believe when you enter Butler Middle School you are going to get this quality of a production. Everything from the costumes (Belle’s yellow dress was better than her dress in the live action film!) to the singing talent of all the leads was outstanding. Summer Sloan Alvey played Belle and she was warm and empathetic and everything you want in Belle. James Carter was hilarious as Lumiere and Jix-Xiang Yu exceptional as Mrs Potts (she might be the finest singer in Utah today. Phenomenal.) But everyone was excellent.
One of the most creative touches director Brighton Sloan used is to have a dancer portray the rose throughout the show. This was elegant and something I’ve never seen before. I know some people disliked the AI projects but most of them worked for me and added a layer immersion into the story.
There were some microphone issues particularly in the “Belle”, “Gaston” and “The Mob Song” numbers (group numbers are really hard to balance sound on because there are a lot of microphones happening at the same time.) Anyway, it certainly wasn’t enough of a problem to put a damper on such a terrific performance!
THE EFFECT OF GAMMA RAYS ON MAN-IN-THE-MOON MARIGOLDS- HART THEATRE COMPANY/IMMIGRANT’S DAUGHTER THEATRE, SALT LAKE
I knew from the title the new show at Hart Theatre Company was going to be unique. The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man in the Moon Miracles is a play written by Paul Zindel in 1971 that he won the Pulitzer Prize for back in the day. It was definitely outside my comfort zone but I like to do that from time to time to stretch as a film and theatre critic. This play tells the story of 2 sisters who are trying to grow up despite their horrible mother. Ariana Farber plays the Mom and she brought enough humanity to the role but she really is a horrible human being. Especially what she does at the ending is unforgivable.
The 2 girls Heidi Farber and Jami Greenburg playing Tillie and Ruth respectively are fantastic and are up for the challenging, emotional moments (especially Greenburg in that ending scene.) All that said, I don’t think this play is for me and it’s not just because it is sad. It’s because I didn’t really see what the point of it was. What are we supposed to learn from these girls and their abusive mother? Are you just supposed to witness it happen as a cautionary tale? I’m not sure but it left me cold despite the very strong performances. Gamma Rays has finished its run but you can find out more about Hart Theatre Company here.
So there you have it. Everything I’ve been watching on the stage lately. What have you been seeing? Are these shows favorites of yours? Would love to hear. Happy theatre-going!
Aside from the shows I reviewed for UTBA I paid for all of these logged shows out of pocket. I’d love to cover as many local shows as possible but I need your help to do so. If you’d like me to review more theatre and appreciate what I do please check out the patreon here
Hi theatre friends! I hope you are all doing well and surviving this crazy July heat. It’s been rough for me because the AC isn’t working in my car so some of these long drives to see a show are a test! If I show up a mess that is why. It hasn’t stopped me, however, from seeing a number of shows but most of them I’ve done full reviews for for UTBA. One week I did 3 reviews for them which is a lot even for me! If you’d like me to do a full review for your show I can do it right here on this site. Just send me an email to rachelsreviews65@gmail.com and I’d love to set it up! Also this is my first post using my new graphics! Thanks to Joan for making them. She is an incredible designer you should totally check out here.
So here’s my latest log:
ANASTASIA: THE MUSICAL- TIMPANOGOS COMMUNITY THEATRE, AMERICAN FORK
Most people know I am not a big fan of this adaptation of the animated film Anastasia. I think it is a very weak retelling of the story where they over-corrected from the problems of the animated movie and made it all super dull. Therefore, it is saying something when I give such high praise to a production like I did for what they did at Timpanogos. Everything from the costumes to the talent involved was top notch. I was especially impressed with Dylan Bradford as Gleb. That part is such a nothing role they wrote for the show replacing Rasputin from the movie and yet he brought so much to it. His voice is absolutely beautiful and he made me feel for a character I had previously cared less about. You can read my full review at UTBA here. This run is finished but they sold out the remaining shows which makes me very happy and keep an eye out for what they have next because it is always top-tier community theatre here.
SEE HOW THEY RUN- BLUFFDALE ARTS, BLUFFDALE
Next up I reviewed See How They Run at Bluffdale Arts for UTBA. This is one of my favorite plays and what’s fun about Bluffdale Arts is their summer plays are free in the park for anyone to enjoy. I love they do this as a gift for the community and See How They Run is so hilarious. It can’t be beat. I think it is so smart for arts councils to do the straight plays. They are so much simpler for them to execute and let the actors really get to hone their crafts, which is what they did here. It was such a fun night!
Even when they aren’t doing free shows they are very reasonable and have a ‘cast anyone’ approach which led to their 200+ The Little Mermaid this year I will never forget. They are definitely one of my favorite arts councils. You can find out more information here as they have Newsies coming up in August! You can read my review of See How They Run here
THE MUSIC MAN- KAYSVILLE CITY, KAYSVILLE
I’ve developed a fun little tradition the last few years of always seeing The Music Man on or around the July 4th holiday. It’s such a festive show with parades and 76 trombones and all it is perfect for this holiday and this year I was fortunate to see the huge community production from Kaysville City. I couldn’t believe at the July 4th 2:30 matinee the huge Davis High School auditorium was packed! Practically every seat sold!
And with good cause because it was a wonderful production of this classic show. This is one that has a lot of sentimental value to me even though I know quite a few folks who don’t care for it. David Simon plays the slick but nerdy version of Harold Hill I prefer (HCTO did one that was too goofy last year. I like the more used car salesman variety for Harold.) Megan Derrick is wonderful as Marian and Jessica Rampton steals any scene she is in as Eulalie Shinn. The many moving parts to this show are directed b Kristin Pettingill Callor and I loved the painted backgrounds by Cynthia Klumpp and Meish Roundy. Everything looked the peak of professionalism with period accurate costumes by Lauri Storey and Janell Roundy. There were some microphone issues but that’s to be expected in such a big auditorium. Other than that it’s a delight and reminds you to stop piling up those “empty yesterdays” and “make today worth remembering”. The Music Man is still playing until July 10th but tickets are going fast here.
THE NUTTY PROFESSOR- HALE CENTER THEATRE, SANDY
Reviewing The Nutty Professor at Hale Center Theatre in Sandy was an interesting experience for me. I typically attend the theater alone and have never had a problem being by myself in a live performance or at the movies. Well, that changed at Hale not by any fault of them but because of the bizarre behavior of the man sitting next to me. There I was minding my own business when he reached over to me and said his daughter didn’t want to “cuddle with me so would I do it.” I was shocked at what I suppose was an attempt at humor but what a gross thing to say to a complete stranger. Anyway, I mention this because I was pretty proud I was able to pull myself together and write a pretty solid review for UTBA.
It’s a bummer because the experience was ruined by this idiot and it was a fun experience (my personal uncomfortability was not reflected in my review.) It was just hard to enjoy what I was seeing sitting next to a creep (who also kept rubbing his daughters back. The whole thing was just incredibly strange.) I know some of my friends deal with this kind of harassment a lot. I’ve been relatively sheltered from it I think because I’m not conventionally attractive so it keeps the creeps away but what a horrible thing to deal with and anyone who behaves this way should be ashamed of themselves. You aren’t funny or amusing. You’re just ruining the experience for other people.
But as far as the show it is probably the strongest premiere Hale has done in this little experimental season they’ve tried this year. Most of my friends seem pretty down on it but I’ve enjoyed the premieres flaws and all. This is of course based on the classic film starring Jerry Lewis and I adore Spencer Hohl who played the lead and it was so fun to see him act with his Mom, Jennifer Parker Hohl. I love when companies cast family. You can read the rest of my review here. The Nutty Professor plays through August 17th and you can purchase tickets here.
Experience gets a not for me. Show a go see it!
CHRISTMAS IN JULY CONCERT- DEER VALLEY MUSIC FESTIVAL, SNOW PARK OUTDOOR AMPITHEATER, PARK CITY
As the host of the Hallmarkies Podcast of course I am primed and ready to celebrate Christmas in July so when I saw they were doing a Utah Symphony concert up in Deer Valley I jumped at the chance to attend. The website promised a chance to “listen to classical holiday favorites” and unfortunately they didn’t really deliver on this promise. What instead we got is Vivaldi’s Winter, a summer piece and the Nutcracker for an entire act (I get that’s holiday themed but they couldn’t have done a medley?) It was just disappointing to only get 2 carols the entire night. We did have Santa but the whole thing was underwhelming and lots of kids were there that got rambunctious with the songs selected.
It’s still fun to listen to the beautiful music but I was just hoping for something more festive and also they didn’t deliver on transforming the space into “a winter paradise” or having “Christmas themed goodies” except for one cupcake with red sprinkles. The gift exchange was fun but it could have just all been better. I’d probably pass on this next year and wait for a different concert. If you want to participate in the music festivals you can find more information here.
So there you have it! What have you been watching? I’d love to hear about your experiences.
All of these logged shows not part of UTBA I pay for out of pocket. If you would like me to be able to see and write about more shows please consider checking out patreon which has some really fun perks like chances to meet Hallmark stars and more. More information here. Thank you
These days if a musical is not based on a movie more likely than not it is of the jukebox variety and this can be a bit of a mixed blessing. This was always the case with shows like Aint Misbehavin’ being critical and commercial big hits back in the 70s. However, the genre got a big bolt of energy in 1999 with a little hit called Mamma Mia and then in 2005 with the Tony Award winning hit Jersey Boys. Since then countless shows have been trying to imitate both of these shows to varying degrees of success.
Of course both Jersey Boys and Mamma Mia represent the two paths a production can take in using a performers songs. They can do the biographical approach like Jersey Boys or they can craft a story around the songs like in Mamma Mia. I’m inclined to think I prefer the latter approach because it leads to more originality but they can both be done for good or ill.
I was thinking about this because I recently saw 2 jukebox musicals that try both approaches to varying successes: American Idiot and MJ: The Musical. While I thought both shows were passably entertaining they also presented the problems the genre can have.
American Idiot takes the songs of Green Day’s American Idiot album and tries to weave a story through the songs. It purports to be about 3 disaffected young men in the early 2000s but I found the narrative to be confusing and I had little idea what was happening between the various songs. Granted I saw it in a tiny black box so that may have factored into it but the attempt to string together the songs into a plot was not very successful.
Then we have MJ: The Musical and this takes the more traditional biographical approach telling the story of Michael Jackson’s career through his big Dangerous World Tour and looking back at his childhood. Honestly given Michael’s controversial life-story this is about the safest, most crowd-pleasing way they could have gone for this musical. I might have considered the narrative approach for Michael Jackson’s songs since a surface level look at his music feels inconsequential but they are also trying to sell tickets so it can only be so dark.
The most impressive part of MJ: The Musical is how many songs they pack into the book with 3 different actors playing Michael at different ages. If you are a fan of Michael’s songs you’ll have a blast hearing his songs performed and seeing the amazing dancing. However, this approach lacks creativity and anything fresh or exciting and at 2 and ½ hours it starts to feel more than a little tedious.
What I wish is that more productions would take the approach of Million Dollar Quartet in crafting their jukebox musical. This show recreates the impromptu jam session between Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Johnny Cash in 1956. What makes this show fresh and exciting is you get music from not just one artists catalog but 4 and you get to imagine what it would be like for all 4 to interact together. It makes it feel like more than just a karaoke session and since it’s about just one night it avoids most of the cliches of the ‘rise to fame’ musical biography.
Another underrated take on the narrative jukebox musical is All Shook Up. Which takes the songs of Elvis and applies them to Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. This gives the musical a narrative structure which something like American Idiot is missing while still giving us the songs we know and love. It ends up being a lot of fun. I know it got poor reviews from critics but I also enjoyed Head Over Heels. It took the music of The-Go-Gos and moves it to the 16th century and the plot of The Countess of Pembroke’s Arcadia. This was something new and inventive I’d never seen before.
I do think if I was forced to pick between the two styles of jukebox musicals I would lean to the storytelling variety over the biographical version. At least this style of musicals allows for fresh and new storytelling where the tough life of musicians and bands tend to follow the same basic patterns. If you’ve ever seen the movie Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story they poke fun at these tropes in the stories of bands and musicians. It’s the same in the stage versions. That’s why something like Million Dollar Quartet at least subverts the formula a little bit. Or perhaps like Walk Hard a musical could tell a musician’s story but also poke fun at the familiar tropes? That could be delightful.
I suppose we all have our favorite jukebox musicals but hopefully as they continue to get made we can get some variety in their production and better quality in how they bring our favorite songs to the stage.
What do you think of jukebox musicals? What are some of your favorites and do you prefer the biopic variety or the story types?
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Rachel Reviews Theatre 