Review by Mike Woody: Something Rotten! at LaComedia Dinner Theatre runs through November 8
Review: Something Rotten! at LaComedia Dinner Theatre
The title may be Something Rotten!, but there’s nothing half-baked about this production. The show could be called Musical Theatre 101, but that would be a disservice. Based on the performances, it’s more like a master’s-level class, demonstrating all the ingredients needed to whip up a winning musical.
It’s the Renaissance era, and the Bottom Brothers are looking to rise to the top of their field by writing the next big show. The brothers are the overtly desperate Nick (Cole Fletcher) and lyricist Nigel (David Thomas); Fletcher is delightfully engaging, hatching one laugh after another with impeccable comic timing. Once a familiar face at La Comedia, it’s a joy to see the charismatic Thomas back in a prominent role.
The Bottom Brothers’ works are always overshadowed by the highly esteemed Shakespeare (Jack Paul Jones). With an ego as big as his codpiece, this is Shakespeare as you’ve never seen him before. Leather pants and rock-star bravado, along with a great “To be” line, make Jones a scene-stealing Hamlet (or omelette) in his own right.
In need of advice on a plot, Nick visits the soothsayer Nostradamus (a relative of the famous one), played by Alexander Cousins. What follows is an absolute must-see. It should be required viewing for every musical theatre student in the world. The lyrics are ingenious and satirical, often simultaneously. It’s perfection personified, totally mesmerizing, and like a bottomless dish of sweet potato soufflé, you never want to reach the end.
In addition to being highly entertaining, the scene is educational, covering musicals from head to toe—or tap shoes. In all seriousness, “A Musical” is a number that leaves you feeling fortunate to have witnessed it. The show could have ended right there, early in the first act, and I would have been satisfied. Don’t misunderstand me: I’m grateful it didn’t, as there are many more enjoyable moments to come. Much credit goes to Cousins and Fletcher, along with the entire ensemble, for creating such a Tony-worthy memory. Did I mention it includes what is arguably my favorite line in any musical—a hilarious jab at Les Misérables?
Most musicals have one show-stopping number, but Something Rotten! has two. I’ve given “A Musical” high praise, yet almost equally impressive is “Make an Omelette.” Once again, Fletcher and much of the cast outdo themselves, taking outrageousness to new heights. The laughs boil over as the cast delivers a deliciously over-the-top number that leaves no yolk unturned.
In strong supporting roles, Grace-Ellen Rison plays Bea, Nick’s wife, who defies gender roles by posing as a man to join the workforce. Rison displays a powerful singing voice and an endearing stage presence. Aubrie-Lee Dentino plays Portia, Nigel’s love interest, who causes those premature sonnet endings. John Langley plays Brother Jeremiah, who spews several sexual innuendos.
In between laughs, musical enthusiasts can have fun counting the references to well-known musicals woven throughout the show. There are more than 50. Anyone who loves musical theatre will thoroughly enjoy Something Rotten!—and leave craving an omelette.
Showtimes and tickets: "Something Rotten"
