Backstage West by Kristina
Mannion, (CRITIC'S PICK)
This lighthearted, slightly ribald musical--a satire of modern dating rituals
and the vagaries of love and marriage--is one of those shows that never grow
dull. There's just something satisfying and refreshing about a work that so
astutely depicts all those silly, sweet, embarrassing things we do in the
name of romance, love, and sex. Creators Joe DiPietro and Jimmy Roberts clearly
capitalize on that, packing this work with plenty of humorous sketches and
memorable songs that highlight every relationship faux pas and triumph in
the proverbial book of love. Like a clever standup comic who uncannily zeros
in on every human quirk, this musical compels everyone--regardless of age
or gender--to laugh and nod knowingly at one another as scene after scene
truthfully points out all our crazy, bittersweet idiosyncrasies. Although
this fun musical is inherently witty and entertaining, there's always room
for enhancement, and director Larry Raben and his cast seize that opportunity
with exuberant success. Their collaboration is a delightful romp that starts
on a high note of energy and never lets up as it sails through tales of first
dates, parenthood woes, and other romantic collisions. Tami Tappan Damiano
and Lance Roberts are most memorable in this staging, exhibiting a boundless
energy that's charmingly infectious. Damiano's sweet voice and expressive
acting serve her well in her roles--comic and touching. She is hilarious in
the exaggerated "He Called Me," in which a potential suitor's return
call is grounds for abandoned celebration. She's also poignantly vulnerable
in "I Will Be Loved Tonight," a hopeful song about longed-for intimacy,
and "The First Dating Video of Rose Ritz," a sobering skit about
the scars left by divorce. Roberts, with his mobile features and commanding
presence, is also a scene stealer. He's often at his best in the mini-vignettes,
in which he earns laughter as a scary Death Row matchmaker and a smarmy infomercial
host pitching the questionable legal and relationship services of Jacoby &
Meyers & Masters & Johnson. Rounding out the cast, Stan Chandler and Susan
Hoffman add their own charisma to the show. They provide one of the most hilarious
moments in "Marriage Tango," a duet that reveals how stealing an
intimate moment is nearly impossible for married couples with children. It's
a randy, laughter-inducing song-and-dance number that deftly sums up one of
the show's messages: Love is often messy and difficult, but it's always worth
the effort in the end.
