Review: TICK, TICK...BOOM! Shines at Dare To Defy Productions

While there are some big shows in town this weekend, there is one little show that should not be overlooked. Dare to Defy's TICK, TICK... BOOM! in the Mathile Theatre at the Schuster Center is as intimate as PHANTOM is spectacle and makes for a beautiful evening of theatre.

Originally written and performed as a one man show by composer Jonathan Larson, of RENT fame, TICK, TICK, BOOM tells the story of Jonathan's personal struggles to make it as a musical theatre composer. His story is told as he faces his upcoming thirtieth birthday as he tries to make the decision to give up or press on. The story is helped along by his best friend, Michael, and his girlfriend, Susan, and a few other characters along the way.

Bobby Mitchum, one of Dayton's most respected young talents, is superb in the role of Jonathan. His vocal interpretations of all of his songs are flawless, most notably with "Why?" which is the definition of musical theatre perfection. Bobby has exceptional chemistry with both of his fellow actors. There is not a single disappointing moment to his performance.

Excellent performances are also given by Danielle Ruddy (Susan/Karessa) and Phillip Drennan (MIchael). When the three sing together, their harmonies soar. They each also have their own moments to shine. Karessa's solo, "Come to Your Senses" is lovely and Michael and Jonathan's duet, "No More", showcases Drennan's splendid voice. Each provides some fun comic relief playing a mixture of ancillary characters, such as Jonathan's father and his agent.

Director Mackensie King does an outstanding job with keeping the action flowing and Music Director Lorri Topping helps to bring out the very best in all three voices. The band and the actors have a very nice balance which showcase all involved. The Mathile Theatre is the perfect location for this intimate performance.

There are only two more opportunities to see this show - Friday and Saturday night at 8. Don't let the crowds for the other shows downtown scare you off from this show. It is performed in 90 minutes with no intermission and you can be on the way back to your car before PHANTOM lets out for intermission. Tickets are available for both performances as of this time. You can buy your tickets at www.ticketcenterstage.com, in person at the box office in the lobby of the Schuster Center or on the phone at 937-228-3630. Tickets are $25 for adults with discounts available for seniors, students and military.

Photo Credit: Mackensie King