BWW Reviews: Goin' Fishin' with the GUYS ON ICE

There are quite a few things that out-of-towners don't understand about our great Dairy State: bubblers, cheese curds, cow tipping, and (probably) ice fishing. For many Wisconsinites, ice fishing is more than just a wintertime hobby - it's a way to reaffirm friendships and escape from the wider world. At least, that's what Lloyd and Marvin do in Fred Alley's homegrown Guys on Ice - a musical comedy about ice fishing.

One wouldn't ordinarily equate The Fireside Dinner Theatre with a show like Guys on Ice as the venue is known for putting their own spin on beloved Broadway musicals, but it's no surprise that they've taken the production and crafted it into a memorable evening. With director Ed Flesch at the helm, the fellas (as well as their uninvited guest Ernie) are having the time of their lives on the ice.

Marvin, an avid fisherman and admirer of Cubby (da fishin' show guy) eagerly awaits the arrival of his television icon with his pal Lloyd by his side. The two guys toss back a few beers, sing a few tunes, and tell a few stories all while hoping they can wrangle a catch to show off to Cubby.

Rick Pendzich, who plays Marvin, brings joy to this production. Although the show can be a bit slow at times, expected as it's about two men sitting in an ice shanty for a day, Pendzich's goofy Marvin keeps things interesting. He has a perfect combination of sincerity and naiveté while pondering life's biggest questions with his best pal.

Lloyd, dutifully portrayed by Steven Koehler, is the snarky friend that Marvin desperately needs. It's wonderful to see Koehler, who was seen recently in the production of The Other Place by Forward Theatre in Madison, flex his comedic muscles in this role. His straight to the point, no nonsense humor keeps the audience on its toes while he and Pendzich go back and forth.

All the while, Paul Helm as Ernie the moocher embraced all silly, Wisconsinite mannerisms and took full advantage of the 'share and share alike' mentality.

Guys on Ice is the type of musical that a 'non-musical' person can appreciate. It's a show that holds a mirror up to our way of life and says 'take a look at dat der' - or - 'take a small moment to laugh at yourself'. It's simple, sharp, and satisfying.

While the weather continues to fluctuate (yet another wonder of the great Dairy State) head over to The Fireside and go fishin' with the fellas - but don't forget your cheese head!

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