BWW Reviews: Explores DO BLACK PATENT LEATHER SHOES REALLY REFLECT UP? at Theatre UCF

To answer the question: DO BLACK PATENT LEATHER SHOES REALLY REFLECT UP? I would say, yes they do, but only if you're looking. There is nothing more unnerving than growing up as the odd one. We all remember the weird kid in school, but what ever happen to that person? Although this show was written in the late 70s, there are themes that remain relevant throughout the decades. Young adults will always question what they are taught. For better or worse the students of DO BLACK PATENT LEATHER SHOES... are united by their common Catholic school bond.

I was absolutely delighted by this musical. I expected a solemn "church" based show like BARE or GODSPELL, and while this show had its serious moments, it was overall very enjoyable. The musical premiered in Chicago in 1979 and had a successful run. It eventually made the jump to Broadway, but did not last long. The plot centers around a coming-of-age story of an awkward kid who grew up attending Catholic school. We learn through his experiences that growing up is not easy. The story travels through time, yet the flashbacks and the flash forwards flow naturally.

There are eight students, but their names are used rarely and they blur together. As a whole, the ensemble does well to pick up the mannerisms and speech patterns of seven year olds. Their acting as youngsters is believable. As the students get older and prepare to graduate to high school their attitude changes and they become more interested in learning about the opposite sex. In "How Far Is Too Far?" the girls (middle school age) wonder what happens if you kiss a boy that you're not intending to marry. It is much more innocent than what kids deal with today.

The two main protagonists are Eddie Ryan (David Klein) and Becky Bakowski (Helena Whittaker). Eddie is the dumb kid and Becky is the little fat girl. They both are bullied, but find friendship with each other. At her young age Becky wonder is God loves little fat girls just as much as the pretty ones with perfect hair. It is heartbreaking to watch young Becky deal with her own self-confidence issues that aren't made better by her home life. As they grow up, both Becky and Eddie deal with issues including shaken faith, puberty, first love, etc.

Helena Whittaker as Becky shows amazing depth as an actress. Her vulnerability and strength as a child is touching. As she grows, the character transforms from ugly duckling to beautiful swan on the outside and on the inside. David Klein plays Eddie Ryan as the kid who observes. He worries in a Charlie Brown sort of way that evokes sympathy. Although the love plot seems haphazardly thrown together, there is some chemistry between Klein and Whittaker.

Out of the school staff, Sister Lee (Kate Ingram) and Father O'Reilly (Mark Brotherton) lead the show. Ingram is undeniably a great asset to Orlando's arts community and to UCF. As Sister Lee, Ingram is stern, but shows her soft side. Her timing is impeccable and she suits the role well. Father O'Reilly is everything a Catholic school official should be. Brotherton is funny, fearsome, and a smooth dancer.

The set is simple and pretty with columns that line the sides of the stage. A stately door sits upstage. The staging and the cast fills the stage to complete the Catholic school vibe. This show is directed and choreographed by Earl D. Weaver. Not only did the direction allow the actors to showcase their acting talents, but the choreography showcased the entire cast's dancing abilities. I loved the choreography. There are a number of great dances in each act. My favorite Act 1 dance occurs in the Finale. It involves chairs and well-timed snaps, claps and footwork. In Act 2 there is a cute 1950's mixer dance party that has choreography from that era. It's fun and reminds me a lot of HAIRSPRAY. Anytime nuns are dancing is a good time.

If you are looking for a light afternoon musical, then this show is for you. DO BLACK PATENT LEATHER SHOES REALLY REFLECT UP? plays at Theatre UCF until July 19. There is some adult language and sexual innuendo, but overall a tame show. For tickets and more information visit click here.

Photo credit: Theatre UCF

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