Review Roundup: What Did the Critics Think of BE MORE CHILL at Monumental Theatre Company

By: Jul. 16, 2019
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Review Roundup: What Did the Critics Think of BE MORE CHILL at Monumental Theatre Company Be More Chill is playing at Monumental Theatre Company through July 29.

Jeremy Heere is just an average teenager. That is, until he finds out about "The Squip"-- -a tiny supercomputer that promises to bring him everything he desires most: a date with Christine, an invite to the raddest party of the year and a chance to survive life in his suburban New Jersey high school. But is being the most popular guy in school worth the risk? Be More Chill is based on the novel by Ned Vizzini.

The musical features music and lyrics by Joe Iconis with a book by Joe Tracz. Izzy Smelkinson directs the Monumental Theatre Company's production, with Marika Countouris music directing, Patricia "Pep" Targete choreographing and Megan Bunn as the associate director.

For more information and tickets to Be More Chill, tap here.

Let's see what the critics have to say about the production in their reviews below!

Pamela Roberts, BroadwayWorld: At the successful center of Monumental Theatre Company's production is its appealing, able, and charismatic cast. Director Izzy Smelkinson has assembled an ensemble of exceptionally talented and engaging artists. Ben Ribler, as Jeremy, brings to life the vulnerability and sensitivity of the confused teen. Our hearts go out to him. Christian Montgomery as Michael is a wonderful teddy bear of a pal soon left behind as the SQUIP blocks the friend from Jeremy's vision to achieve his rise to popularity. Montgomery brings down the house with the deeply affecting song, "Michael in the Bathroom." Jyline Carranza is a bubbly, earnest, kind, and thoroughly likeable Christine; her voice is glorious. The SQUIP is played with cool calculation and strength by Caroline Dubberly.

Sophia Howes, DC Metro Theatre Arts: Christian Montgomery has the key role of Michael, Jeremy's best friend. The song "Michael in the Bathroom" as sung by George Salazar, was crucial to the evolution of Be More Chill into an Internet phenomenon. Montgomery is marvelous in the part, and he makes Michael all his own. Montgomery's performance of "Michael in the Bathroom" is one of the highlights of the production.

Sara Dudley Brown, Zebra: Christian Montgomery's performance of "Michael in the Bathroom" is a standout. Brought down the house. Christian is a powerhouse performer and exudes a sweetness and calm that Jeremy (superbly acted by Ben Ribler) needs but throws away when he's under the influence of the fabulous SQUIP (Caroline Dubberly). I promise that you will be thinking about and replaying unforgettable scenes from this show long after you see it.



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