What I liked
Janson Lalich as goofy, insecure, nerdy Mikey is spot on, as is Susan Louise O’Connor as his reluctant overseer, Louise, who has been forced into guardian service by their parents. Both actors do not hold back in their portrayals of these younger personas. Lalich has all the qualities of the 11-year-old who is obsessed with the pop culture of his time. His somewhat short attention span is complimented by his boundless enthusiasm and undeniable desire to throw the BEST SLEEPOVER EVER for his friends, even if that means doing all the things HE likes. O’Connor is equally effective as the teenage girl who fancies herself too “cool” for this party and would rather be anywhere else than watching over her doofus brother. Although she considers herself a Ph.D. in modern music, we also find out she has some insecurities of her own, especially when it comes to … boys.
Both actors keep the show moving and are funny and entertaining throughout, and it’s worth seeing it for their performances alone. However, the interactive experience makes it even more fun. As Mikey’s “friends” who interact with them on Zoom throughout the entire show, we are swept up into their super fun world and the feelings that it generates. You can just watch this show with your Zoom camera and mic off, but I wouldn’t recommend that. It’s definitely much more fun to participate, and the audience with us the night we saw it seemed to be having a wonderful time. My wife and I certainly did.
There are some pre-recorded bookends in the show featuring the parents, and those actors are very entertaining as well. The tech runs extremely smoothly. I love that even though Mikey and Louise are zooming in from different places, it looks like they’re sitting on the same couch. And the end of the show has a heart-warming surprise for those who fully participate.
What I didn't like
I didn’t see anything that needed improvement. But I will say this, audience members should come see this show with an open mind and desire to have a good time. Rather than approach it as watching a play, treat it as though you are going to a real party, even a real Zoom party, and you will get the most enjoyment out of it. Prior to the show, you will receive a request (not mandatory, not an obligation) to fill out a questionnaire. I highly recommend doing that. You’ll be glad you did!
My overall impression
THE SLEEPOVER is a delightful, light-hearted immersive show which transports the audience back in time to their childhood years as they participate in a sleepover party held by pre-teen Mikey and his adolescent sister, Louise. The show is both comical and heartwarming, with lots of genuinely funny moments. It takes you right out of today’s difficult world and sends you back to a simpler, more innocent time. It’s a great way to relax and forget about any troubles for an hour!
