My overall impression
This tribute to late twentieth century family values sitcoms perfectly realizes its ambitions as an homage to the genre and its own complete work of musical theatre satire. The trick that the creative team has mastered is the genre’s structure. A sympathetic loving family has a challenge that they must conquer in thirty minutes or less and it must result in a win-win situation for everyone.
Heidi Powers and Tom Moore turn in a clever and fast-paced musical review that not only stays true to the essence of these classic television characters but also provides a familiar yet fun plot trajectory. Ryan Bergmann’s staging is as clean and deft as those iconic episodes. He beautifully elicits a unified integrity from his ensemble throughout. Joe Greene’s costumes and Janet Roston’s choreography are wonderfully appropriate especially Rosey, The Robot’s armored look and movement from The Jetsons.
Every audience member has its favorites depending on which of these classic sitcoms were their guilty pleasure. Most will agree though that Lorie Moore delivers a sassy and tuneful nod to Nell Carter that the Diva herself would well appreciate. Gabby Sanalitro almost steals the show as the understated and stoically determined Consuela. Gina Torrecilla does double duty as she meticulously captures the beloved Alice from The Brady Bunch and delivers the musical book’s lovely theme.
Lani Shipman carries the show from start to finish with her wide-eyed grace and lovely voice. She is beautifully accompanied by her gifted comedic sidekick Ryan O’Connor. Move over Vivian Vance, he’s nipping at your heels.
Don’t miss this show. It’s a terrific homage to a fluffy American genre that somehow worked its way into the hearts and memories of a generation.
