TICK, TICK… BOOM! IS AN EXPLOSIVE PRODUCTION

tick, tick… Boom! originally presented as a "rock monologue" entitled Boho Days, was performed by composer/lyricist Jonathan Larson as an autobiographical look at his dream of leaving his mark on the musical theater landscape. Larson was working on Boho Days at the same time he was writing the ground-breaking musical RENT, though, of course, his tragic death meant that he did not live to see his dream become a reality.

After Larson's untimely death, his college friend and producing partner Victoria Leacock became determined to bring tick, tick… Boom! to a wider audience. She enlisted David Auburn, author of the Pulitzer prize-winning play Proof as a "script consultant." Auburn studied Larson's various drafts of the show and restructured the monologue into a three person show. Pegasus Players close their 2005-2006 season by presenting Larson's edgy musical at the O'Rourke Center at Truman College.

Larson's tale is of young composer Jon, played exceptionally well by Michael Ingersoll, on the brink of turning 30 and still waiting tables, while trying to write the great American musical. His girlfriend Susan, played radiantly by Jess Godwin, is a dancer who "supports herself by teaching ballet to wealthy and untalented children," and wants to get married and move out of the city. Michael, his roommate, played by Quinton Guyton II, has recently given up acting and become a successful marketing executive making big bucks on Madison Avenue.

The three actors compliment each other brilliantly with equally strong acting and near-perfect vocals. Guyton and Godwin play a slew of characters exceptionally well and Godwin's rendition of "Come to your Senses" may be the best female vocal performance on a Chicago stage this spring. Not to be outdone by Godwin is Ingersoll's portrayal of Jon. His acting is so compelling that it eerily makes you think you are watching a young Larson on stage. During his song "Why," one can't help being moved by the heartfelt lyrics and the possibility of Larson not being able to realize his dream.

Richard and Jacqueline Penrod's dazzling set is one of their best yet, which makes it easy for Director Ilesa Duncan to move the actors seamlessly around the stage. Sondheim fans get a nice chuckle during the number "Sunday," and everyone relates to and laughs at the song "Therapy," where Jon and Susan sing about not wanting to step on each other's toes.

tick, tick… Boom! earned seven Drama Desk nominations in 2001 and won the Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding Off-Broadway Musical. Pegasus Player's production has just been extended through July 16^th and is without doubt one of the best shows currently on stage.

tick, tick... Boom!

When: Extended Through July 16^th

Where: O'Rourke Center at Truman College, 1145 W. Wilson Ave, Chicago

Prices: $17 - $25

 

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