Review: NRACT'S Fun FIRST DATE Worthy of a First Impression Rose

FIRST DATE is a cute, somewhat formulaic, kitsch musical comedy that packs a whole lot of laughs.

The show, which premiered at Seattle's ACT Theatre in 2012 and opened on Broadway a year later, kicks off North Raleigh Arts Creative Theatre's (NRACT'S) new season. The score features music and lyrics by Alan Zachary and Michael Weiner of the upcoming movie-to-Broadway adaptations of 17 AGAIN and 13 GOING ON 30.

Casey is a self-proclaimed serial dater who is set up with Aaron, who she dubs a BDV (blind date virgin). As the date unfolds in real time (sans intermission), the unlikely pair navigates through the ice-breakers, awkward moments, and conversational landmines all too familiar to anybody who has been on a blind date.

Lauren Bamford (Casey) and Sean McCracken (Aaron) both have their shining moments, in particular, Bamford's rendition of "Safer" and McCracken's rollicking "In Love with You," but it is the strong comedic supporting cast and hilarious ensemble numbers, including the "Bailout Song," "The Girl for You," and "The World Wide Web is Forever," that make the show worthwhile.

Directed by Pete Comperatore and well-choreographed by Elizabeth Anderson, NRACT'S FIRST DATE is just pure, unadulterated fun.

FIRST DATE runs through July 29th at North Raleigh Arts Creative Theatre. For more information visit:

www.nract.org.

Photo by Elizabeth Anderson on location at Relish Craft Kitchen & Bourbon Bar.