His greatest nightmare is being trapped in a musical... And guess what this is? With its over the top caricatures and slapstick comedy with an edgy twist, The Guy Who Didn't Like Musicals is unmistakably Starkid: the theatre production company made famous through viral musicals on Youtube including A Very Potter Musical, Twisted, Firebringer, and more. Hartford Players bring that same sketch comedy energy to their performance, running through March 23rd.
When you enter the intimate space at Inspiration Studios, you face a wall of lit panels. Throughout the show, they not only shift with mood, but create mosaic backdrops for the performance. This design, with lighting by David Pecsi and director Abigail Ford, marries well with the synth soundtrack and post-internet humor of the show.
While the show could benefit from a quicker pace, the ensemble features some standout comedic performances - Brianna Deans brings an exasperated (to the point of occasional mania) aire to her performance as Emma Perkins, the begrudging employee of a singing coffee shop and the love interest of the titular Paul. Watching her unravel as the thespian apocalypse dawns is a delight. She brings a dose of optimism to her sardonic role that is undeniably endearing.
Kory Friend plays a number of roles in the ensemble, ranging from the boss at a dry office to the overzealous general of the US Army. They spring into action with a precision and fervor that demands the audience's attention and keeps it close as they lead us through the unexpected twists in the script. Even in large group numbers, you can't help but to follow their track.
With a simple set and a cast of young adults covering all roles - whether children or elders - Hartford Players has effectively captured the kitch for which Starkid is best known. The fun being had by the performers is palpable, and in their joy, the heart of the show is keenly on display. Fans of the original material should go in with confidence that the musical is in the hands of those who love it just as dearly.
At the time of their preview performance, the cast struggled with pitch issues. However, in the company's technical setup, the speakers face the audience with no monitors to help the performers hear the music. Some adjustments to the arrangement of the monitors before the end of the run could vastly improve the experience for the audience and actors like.
Following the success of the Rocky Horror Show last year, Hartford Players is developing a fresh reputation for selecting exciting works that attract new audiences. If you are a fan of Starkid, otherworldly takeovers, slime, or even if you hate musicals, this one is a lot of fun.
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