Lyrics by Chad Beguelin
Music by Matthew Sklar
Book by Chad Beguelin and Tim Herlily
Directed by Trevor Southworth
Based on the New Line Cinema film, The Wedding Singer is a hilarious musical comedy full of 80’s references from clothes to song lyrics. This musical adaptation tells the story of Robbie Hart, a former heavy metal musician who’s day job has turned into a career. Robbie’s fiancé Linda leaves him standing at the altar leaving him devastated. A budding friendship with workmate Julia blossoms into romance when she convinces Robbie to help plan her own wedding.
The Ensemble of this show was incredible. While some were making their stage debuts, they were no less invested than their seasoned cast mates. Their energies flew high through each choreographed routine. Hats off to these guys. I also loved that this production called for every member of the ensemble to have a moment to shine.
Patrick Clark was an amazing Robbie Hart. It would have been easy for this actor to mimic either Adam Sandler or Stephen Lynch for this iconic character but Patrick was sincere in his approach to this role. Many of the familiar jokes play in the musical’s book, however Patrick was able to breathe new life into each one while still holding fast to the integrity of the character. Robbie’s likability is integral to the show as the character who was once the glue for every relationship he had. When he falls apart, nothing if off limits to the character. Patrick’s voice was strong, fluid and went perfectly with the 80’s style synths. Thank you for this incredible character, Patrick.
Grace Boynton was exquisite as Julia Sullivan. As the one straight character in the show, any actress portraying Julia could have rested on being pretty and normal while everyone else is weird. Grace, however gave Julia a gentile yet charismatic depth and life. Her strong attention to the comedy in this show made her nimble, able to deliver comedic lines then snap back into the grounded Julia. Her voice was sweet yet powerful. I look forward to hearing it develop as she continues to work her belt.
Adia J. Seckel is a ferocious force as Holly. This woman is another one to watch. I am fascinated with her confidence on stage. I had the pleasure of seeing Adia in the Hunchback of Notre Dame as Esmeralda at the Garden Theatre. I was looking forward to hearing her blow me away with her rendition of “Right in Front of Your Eyes.” While I would have liked a stronger belt tone for the final note in the this song, I can understand why Adia chose to use her mix instead. I felt the audio for the show was not balanced properly between the actors microphones and the monitors playing the pre-recorded tracks. Adia did not disappoint. This dynamic actress makes bold choices not only with her voice but also her physicality that drive the energy of this show from beginning to end.
Michael Cleary as Glen Gulia. I had been fortunate enough to meet Michael after his performance in the Hunchback of Notre Dame at the Garden Theatre. Michael is kind and respectful, a far cry from the character he portrays. Michael had informed me that due to issues with his voice, he would not be singing but speaking Glen’s number “All About the Green.” I have to say I wasn’t disappointed in this choice. “Green” is usually a song I skip over while listening to the Original Broadway Cast recording but Michael is a phenomenal performer. While I might have been disappointed at not hearing his voice at its full potential, I was delighted at the choice made to use Michael’s baritone speaking voice to emphasize the sleazy character’s attraction to money. My favorite choice was the emphasis on the hook of the song. Instead of choosing to speak monotone, Michael dared to take the note down what sounded like a fifth in the chord below the original note. I never loved to hate a character so much.
Other outstanding performances include Aimee Aballo as Grandma Rosie who can do the worm better than anyone I’ve ever seen and Marissa Volpe as Linda. Bravo to the cast and crew of this show. I just might have to come see this show again
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