Director Jerry Dixon and choreographer Bojohn Disciple take on Terrence McNally's Full Monty at Village Theatre, and do a darn good job of it. The musical itself is an Americanized version of the UK film about factory workers down on their luck and laid off of their jobs. Set in Buffalo, the American version features the same themes of the modern man's struggle with identity and everybody's struggle with body image.
This PG-13 musical is fantastically humorous, but manages to have a heart, too. Village Theatre's production could have explored this side more, especially the father-son relationship between the main character, Jerry Lukowski and the child he wants joint custody of. Still, in terms of vocal quality, tight choreography (when called for) and light-hearted fun, this show knocks it out of the park.
Dan Stokinger, long a Village Theatre favorite, lends his stunning set of pipes to the difficult musical score written by David Yazbek. His acting is solid, but it's his beautiful and versatile voice that really makes this performance...well, sing. The cast is well-rounded and talented, in both female and male roles, including the bit part of "Jeanette." Played by Ellen McLain, Jeanette threatens to utterly steal the show from the male strippers she accompanies on the piano.
WHERE: In Issaquah: Francis J. Gaudette Theatre
303 Front Street North
Issaquah, WA 98027
In Everett: Everett Performing Arts Center
2710 Wetmore Avenue
Everett, WA 98201
WHEN: Issaquah Dates: September 15 – October 24, 2010– ON SALE: 8/12/10
Wednesdays through Saturdays: 8:00 PM
Saturdays and Sundays: 2:00 PM
Selected Tuesdays: 7:30 PM
Selected Sundays: 7:00 PM
Everett Dates: October 29 – November 21, 2010– ON SALE: 9/22/10
Wednesdays through Saturdays: 8:00 PM
Saturdays and Sundays: 2:00 PM
Selected Sundays: 7:00 PM
TICKETS: Issaquah:
$20-$60, Box Office (425) 392-2202 or (866) 688-8049
Everett:
$19-$54, Box Office (425) 257-8600 or (888) 257-3722
Student & Military Rush: ½ price 30 minutes prior to curtain for any available seat. Group discounts available for groups of 10 or more.
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