Artists who sell their souls to corporate America may not have integrity but they drive nice cars. Bloggers who sell their souls to marketing firms may not earn the love of their readership but they get free theater tickets. Such is the case with me and a very secret, very powerful organization which sends me free theater tickets if I agree to blog about the show. The deal is I only have to blog about the show if I like the show. If I don’t like the show, I don’t have to blog about it. So I’m not really selling my soul because I can use my own discretion as to what I find recommendable. Lucky for me, the show they sent me to yesterday–The Drowsy Chaperone–is highly recommendable. I think it’s going to be a big hit. The conceit is that a musical theater lover lives a lonely life in his apartment, listening to his favorite musicals on a record player. One of his favorite musicals is an imaginary 1920s “chaperone” (a show with a light, silly plot that weaves together fun, upbeat songs) called “The Drowsy Chaperone.” He puts on the record and the show comes to life in his apartment. This is what we might call a meta-musical, but it’s a meta-musical with heart. It’s got some great musical numbers and wonderful talent, particularly the talents of Sutton Foster best known for her Millie in “Thoroughly Modern Millie.” The audience on the night I saw it was roaring with laughter; the actors seemed to be having a great time. This is just a fun, light romp that leaves you feeling great. Plus it’s innovative and interesting which is more than you can say about 90% of the shlocky Jukebox musicals that get produced on Broadway these days. Check it out!
P.S. I labeled this an “inappropriate theater review” because it’s inappropriate for a food blog, not inappropriate for children, senior citizens or the hard of hearing.
P.P.S. I said the HARD OF HEARING.
P.P.P.S. The big secret marketing firm wants me to direct 25-35 year old readers (those who would remember the 80s) “to contribute their knowledge to our 80’s Vocabulary Experiment. Top submissions will be used in portions of our future ad campaign (potentially a Times Square billboard).” The ad campaign is for The Wedding Singer The Musical so go forth and contribute. I hope to see you on a billboard.
