This is the review I am putting in my blog:
September 26, 2008
The Wonderettes Keep The Westside Rockin'
On Friday, August 29th, New York City got a wonderful addition Off Broadway. This new addition comes in the form of a musical called "The Marvelous Wonderettes" which is now taking place 8 times a week at the Westside Theatre. Featuring songs from the 50's and 60's, this show is a blast from the past that had the audience laughing throughout and singing along with the songs in their heads.
The Westside Theatre did a great job setting the mood by playing 50's music in the lobby before the show started, and also in the theatre during intermission. As a matter of fact, many people in the audience used intermission to let out the energy they had been holding inside during the first act. It was hard not to smile when you turned around to find numerous people standing up and dancing together.
"The Marvelous Wonderettes" stars Farah Alvin (Missy), Beth Malone (Betty Jean), Bets Malone (Suzy), and Victoria Matlock (Cindy Lou) who play four high school girls who have hopes and dreams and are infatuated with the idea of falling in love. They are all excellent singers and each character has their own little quirks that keep the audience entertained. The show features many songs that you will recognize such as "Lollipop," "All I Have To Do Is Dream," "It's In His Kiss (The Shoop Shoop Song), and many more. Beth Malone and Bets Malone were the two standout actresses and did a fantastic job playing their characters.
The first act takes place at their prom in 1958, and the second act takes place at their 10 year high school reunion in 1968 where the Marvelous Wonderettes reunite and perform for the first time in 10 years. We see the changes they went through over that time and find out how they have changed and how they have stayed the same. As a side note, I was not aware before the performance that I would be making my Off Broadway debut tonight as Missy's love interest, Mr. Lee. I was called on stage once during each act, and yes, I was quite embarrassed! But it was hard not to enjoy all four ladies singing to me.
You will have a great time at the show and judging by the crowd's reaction tonight (the woman in front of me had already seen it six times in a month), you will want to mark this one on your list of shows to see.
The Marvelous Wonderettes
Westside Theatre
407 West 43rd St
New York, NY 10036
Tickets are available at www.telecharge.com or by calling (212) 239-6200.
Updated On: 9/27/08 at 12:30 AM
