Adding to the list of edgy modern musicals hitting local theater stages in recent seasons comes a show about the challenges – as well as horrors and pleasant surprises – of the contemporary dating scene. The setting is New York City, though this story could play out anywhere. Nice guy Aaron has been set up on a blind date. He's an overdressed ball of nerves. Even the waiter feels sorry for him. Then in walks his blind date, Casey, who is the antithesis of Aaron. Where he is awkward, she is confident. Where he struggles to remove his tie, she sizzles in a glittery cocktail dress and combat boots. The two seem perfectly mismatched, which is a story plot we've all seen and heard a million times. So, what makes this one different?
STC's production of the romantic musical comedy First Date, book by Austin Winsberg, music and lyrics by Alan Zachary and Michael Weiner and directed by Jacob Deters, is funny without being over-the-top, sweet but not saccharine, flawed but still notable. While the premise may sound completely predictable, and it kinda is, this show is a cool new telling and this local production delivers. With its cozy unit set, some clever dialogue and a few knockout songs, the tight 90-ish-minute one-act might not be everyone's cup of tea. But there are enough things within this production to like, so your personal preference might not matter so much by the end.
The story navigates, in real time, what the dating world can look like for so many wannabe couples, touching on all the hot-button issues that can make or break a relationship: religion, children, awkward pauses, communicable diseases, one's social media history, bad jokes, worse jokes, political correctness, exes and the dreaded topic of who pays "The Check." There are also Casey and Aaron's inner voices seen only by the audience and the leads. These are friends and family who appear to the characters and whisper in their ear like the good angel or bad devil sitting on their shoulder, pointing them in the right direction or leading them astray. Eventually, in creeps self-doubt and the desire to play it safe for our couple, almost upending any thoughts of "will they, or won't they?"
There were some hit-and-miss moments with the writing, but I was entertained and impressed by the collaborative efforts of everyone onstage and offstage. Anchoring the show are Hope Cherry and Wes Bridges as Casey and Aaron. They grab you from the start and don't let go for an hour and a half. Their comic timing and delivery are both sharp and subtle and their singing will melt your heart - occasionally your face. These two make potentially off-putting characters likable and sympathetic, with great onstage chemistry. They have a true knack for listening and being wholly in the moment. They're supported by an ensemble of actors (Will Moffett, Hannah Levin, Jared Lamkey, Jessica Smith, Kristin Wheeler, Antonio King Jr., Jack McLaughlin, Hunter Woods, Madeline Boner) who morph in and out of a variety of dating couples, old flames, siblings, bail-out friends, parents and a hard-working singing waiter. Extra props to everyone who had to eat actual food onstage.
Director Deters, who also capably served as scenic designer, along with his talented staff and crew (vocal direction Matt Woodson, choreography Casey Tester, music direction Blake Martin, et al) have the cast and show in good voice and looking appropriate to the piece.
And as for the spate of cool, well-done, barely-heard-of shows being produced around here....keep it up!
First Date has some mature language and themes and might not be suitable for all ages. The show continues at the Hoogland Center for the Arts in the LRS Theatre Feb. 23-25. Friday and Saturday performances will start at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees begin at 2 p.m. https://www.hcfta.org/tickets
