What I liked
The ensemble joyfully created the world of the middle school. The leads set the tone for the show and everyone was rowing in the same direction, which is rarer than you’d think. The musical direction was tight and the ensemble sounded great together.
What I didn't like
There were some distracting technical issues, but those are to be expected at a Preview.
My overall impression
Michael Shapiro’s musical is delightful and energetic. The cast is invigorated by Joanna Syiek’s precise and inventive direction and choreography. Jennifer Lin’s musical direction makes the wonderful score shine. There are many fantastic performances delivered by the cast, none more so than the work of Allie Costa and Jordan Mitchell-Love. Costa soars as both the adorkable love interest as well as the moral center of the show. Mitchell-Love gentle positivity and subtle humor as the artificial life form provides unexpected heart. This show has a great future.
