Photo by Mike Morgan
Remember `N Sync, New Kids on the Block, the Backstreet Boys, and yes, Menudo? Those famous boy bands of the 90s? If you don’t, it’s OK! You’ll still have a great time at Uptown Players’ latest success, Altar Boyz--the satirical story of an all boy Christian rock band from Ohio. Completing the last leg of their ‘Raise the Praise’ tour, the Altar Boyz are out to lighten the load of all the burdened souls in the audience, without realizing theirs might be the most burdened of them all.
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Photo by Mike Morgan
Before the show even begins, the concert tour set and cool dance beats set a party-like atmosphere. When the lights do go down and anticipation is high, notice the live band peeking from behind the mesh set—an excellent part of the show. Enter the Altar Boyz: Matthew, Mark, Luke, Juan, and Abraham. Yes, they are named after the four gospels of the Bible, with a nice Jewish boy thrown into the mix as well.
Not missing a single beat, director Cheryl Denson keeps the ball rolling in this high-energy production. John de Los Santos’ choreography is fresh, clever, and sexy, bringing the show’s lyrics to life. Julie Moroney’s rock concert lighting design is extremely exciting, using rich colors and striking gobo effects. The music and lyrics are indeed uplifting and hilarious, rife with innuendos of all kinds.
Each member of the Altar Boyz has a distinct personality, marked by his choice of clothing (costumes by Suzi Cranford) and even manner of speaking. Juan (Angel Velasco), the Mexican orphan boy, is reminiscent of Fez from That 70s Show, replete with gold chains and a thick, saucy accent. Luke (Brian Daniels) is the East Coast Bad-A, not blessed with brains and often suffering from ‘exhaustion’ (code word for drugs and alcohol), but endearing despite his faults. Mark (Drew Kelly) is the young, effeminate band member whose unrequited love for Matthew is the basis for much of this musical’s humor. Matthew (Alexander Ross), the group’s fearless and responsible leader (and owner of bulging biceps), has a gift for music, but not words. Fortunately, Abraham (Michael Tuck), is a gifted lyricist. Abraham, the lone Jewish member, has a yarmulke to go with each outfit and acts as the band’s moral compass.
The young men fully develop their characters and connect with the audience in their own ways. Their voices are all heavenly, but Drew Kelly’s is especially so--his high notes make your heart hurt. While the story itself may be a bit light in background and depth, once the Altar Boyz get started, you might not stop smiling--until you walk away from the theater and realize your face hurts. Uptown Players’ Altar Boyz is a true gem.
Altar Boyz runs August 7th through September 9th at the KD Studio Theatre. Shows are Thursday thru Saturday at 8pm and Sunday at 2pm. For tickets and directions, go to www.uptownplayers.org.
Read the review of Circle Theatre's Incorruptible
Comments
In a day and age in which most who judge theater bash professionals of the stage Kelly gives a fresh voice with a mix of good judgment and true knowledge of the craft. Her judgment is not only excellent but a ready guide to great performances. Good luck and best wishes to our new theater arts critic.
It's so true - my daughter and I went last nite and YES, our faces hurt from so much smiling! This show is something special. I'm thinking of going back tonite if there is a ticket available...
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