Review: SOMETHING ROTTEN! is Sensational at the Eccles

The national tour of SOMETHING ROTTEN! has arrived at the Eccles Theater with the sensational first touring cast still in tow.

SOMETHING ROTTEN! (book by Karey Kirkpatrick and John O'Farrell, music and lyrics by Wayne Kirkpatrick and Karey Kirkpatrick) is a full-tilt comedy that wears its heart on its sleeve but is filled to the brim with witty theatre references. In 1590s England, brothers Nick and Nigel Bottom are struggling to write a play that is as beloved as the work of their rival, William Shakespeare. When Nostradamus foresees the popularity of musicals in the future, Nick becomes convinced that he and his brother must write a musical to ensure their success.

Tony nominee Rob McClure (CHAPLIN: THE MUSICAL) and Josh Grisetti (IT SHOULDA BEEN YOU) play Nick and Nigel Bottom, respectively. Both played the same roles as replacements on Broadway, and it is clear why. They are perfectly cast with precise characterizations and wonderful vocal and comedic chops.

The leading women are every bit as fantastic. Nick's wife, Bea, is played by McClure's real-life wife Maggie Lakis, who matches him with great chemistry and a belt that will knock you flat. Nigel's love interest, Portia, is played sweetly and amusingly by the talented Autumn Hurlbert (MTV's LEGALLY BLONDE: THE SEARCH FOR ELLE WOODS).

At the reviewed performance, understudy Daniel Beeman didn't miss a beat as Shakespeare--a role usually played by Broadway star Adam Pascal (RENT, AIDA).

Other standout members of the cast include Blake Hammond as Nostradamus, Scott Cote as Portia's father, Brother Jeremiah, and Jeff Brooks as Shylock.

The production itself is worthy of the performances. The choreography by director Casey Nicholaw (ALADDIN) is precise and joyous. The scenic design by Scott Pask (THE BOOK OF MORMON) and lighting design by Jeff Croiter (NEWSIES) work in tandem to create a colorful, exaggerated world that is filled with the lush, whimsical costumes designed by Gregg Barnes (KINKY BOOTS).

For the first time, Broadway at the Eccles is creating a New York City stage door experience after the show for audience members who would like to greet the performers. With a Broadway-worthy leading cast and a hilarious book and score, you don't want to miss a New York night out right here in Utah.

SOMETHING ROTTEN! plays the Eccles Theater for a limited engagement through Sunday, January 14, 2018. For tickets, call ArtTix at 801-355-ARTS (2787) or visit www.artsaltlake.org.

Photo Credit: L-R Josh Grisetti (Nigel Bottom), Rob McClure (Nick Bottom), and cast. Photo by Jeremy Daniel.