BWW Reviews: Temporary Theatre Debuts with Fun-Filled Production of GUTENBERG! THE MUSICAL! Though 3/28

At our current rate of consumption, is it conceivable that we could ever reach a point where every movie, book, historical figure, or current event available will have been used as the basis for a musical? Probably not. But, with that idea in mind, writers/composers Scott Brown and Anthony King have crafted a rather unlikely vehicle titled Gutenberg! The Musical!, which was originally developed during their work with the comedy troupe the Upright Citizens Brigade. A wonderfully energetic production of this piece, featuring a sharp cast and tight direction, marks the debut of the new Temporary Theatre company at the Ivory Theatre.

Doug and Bud are two budding playwrights, Doug writes the scripts and Bud writes the music (both write the lyrics), who are struggling to find a concept they can utilize to jump start their dreams. After an attempt to combine all of Stephen King's novels into one production fails, they hit upon the idea of creating a show based around the inventor of the printing press, Johannes Gutenberg. When a Google search provides scant background information, they decide to completely fictionalize his life's story, providing him with a love interest named Helvetica (yes, she's named after the font), and a villainous monk as an adversary. Along the way we learn more about Doug and Bud's personal lives, as they discuss their reasoning behind certain choices, and take the time to teach us some basic writing and theatre concepts.

Steve Isom and Ben Nordstrom deliver exuberant performances as Doug and Bud, respectively. Nordstrom's Bud is full of pep, completely over the top, and winningly funny. Nordstrom not only brings considerable enthusiasm to the role, but he also displays a terrific range vocally, filling in a lot of the high harmonies and falsetto voices that populate the playful score. Isom is equally up to task, and though his character is far more subdued, it's a splendid contrast. Together they share a strong chemistry, and since they're playing all the roles in this read through, that's essential. Henry Palkes is also stellar accompanying the pair on piano, and providing musical direction.

Director Bobby Miller keeps this fast paced show chugging along at a good clip. This is lightweight stuff, but it all goes down nice and easy. Ellen Isom's choreography is amusing, and provides Steve and Ben with several cute moments. Glenn Dunn's lighting is well done, and neatly adapts to the mood changes that occur throughout.

Brown and King's score is charming and goofy, and filled with silly jokes, some sophomoric, and some downright witty. I especially liked "Monk With Me", but there are several catchy tunes, and more than enough reasons to attend.

Temporary Theatre's fun-filled production of Gutenberg! The Musical! continues through March 28, 2010 at the Ivory Theatre.

To post a comment, you must register and login.