Crabbe and Goyle are Dead

What I liked

This show requires two leads that have the skills and charm to carry the show, just like the show it parodies, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead, and both leads are up to the task. Schlichter and Lutheran deftly handle Keim’s expertly re-created absurdist dialogue with effortless grace and superb accents. They’re genuinely funny, and, while the script doesn’t break much in the way of new ground, refreshingly interesting. There’s probably a narrow overlap between people who have intimate knowledge of both Stoppard and Rowling, but, for those that do, you won’t be disappointed.

What I didn't like

The show is likely to be alienating for those who don’t know either the ins and outs of Harry Potter or Rosencrantz and Guildenstern. Imagine watching Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead without knowing Hamlet. It would be a strange experience indeed. That’s a strength more than anything, but it’s something to be aware of before you book your ticket. Refresh your knowledge of whichever of the two you’re less familiar with.

Perhaps it’s the strength of the leads that highlights the deficiencies of the ensemble, but they’re weaker than I’d like, often coming off a little too inexperienced, under-rehearsed, or under-directed. That said, each person does have a moment to shine with Andersen having them most frequently in her brow-beaten house elf, Tinsy. I imagine that a little more attention being paid to them would yield even better results.

The show could also stand to have a slightly higher or better-managed budget, as some costume and effect choices were less-well-executed than the show deserves.

My overall impression

Exactly as advertised!