What I liked
Literally everything. Puppets, comedy, hummable songs, likable characters, even smooth technical production.
What I didn't like
Turnaround time on the next show? ;)
My overall impression
If there were to be a King of Hollywood Fringe musicals, it would have to be Michael Shapiro. 2019’s THE BULLY PROBLEM was a phenomenal Broadway-class project and his new Call to Adventure, GIDEON ANDTHE BLUNDERSNORP, follows perfectly. Shapiro’s shows always nail all the vitals – perfect casting, great directing and choreography, and (most importantly) laser-precision crafted story. With likable characters, funny dialogue, beautiful character- and story-driven songs, and a vulnerable and sweet heart, his shows always deliver. Direction and choreography by Matthew Toronto are spot-on (timing and delivery for everyone was impeccable) and the whole cast shines. The use of puppetry and Greg Craft’s lighting were wonderful. Incidentally, I saw this as a streaming show and the quality of the additional technical elements was also outstanding. StudioStage was the perfect location for this show. Bravo. I look forward to the next one!
