There are few things in the theatrical world that are “forbidden”. Those of a certain age might remember the Sci-Fi cult classic film Forbidden Planet, or the TV show Forbidden Island. But there’s one Broadway phenomenon that has stood the test of time and, while not “forbidden” in the technical sense of the word, has sparked legions of loyal followers over the years, and that is Forbidden Broadway. A sendup revue of musical theatre parodying both Off-Broadway & Broadway shows alike, it remains a constant to entertain and, most importantly, amuse us.
Blame it all on Gerard Allesandrini who came up with the idea of re-writing the lyrics to shows of the time. Add in costumes, a piano player, and an occasional guest appearance by a Broadway star (Carol Channing comes to mind in one favorite piece of mine, “Imitation is the Sincerest Form of Flattery”), and sprinkle in an intimate cast and what do you get? Hilarity, that’s what. The show opened in 1982 starring Allesandrini himself in the original cast. He has revised the show more than a dozen times over the years to account for the new musicals cropping up.
If you’re intrigued by the concept, but can’t make the trip to New York, fear not. You can catch a hilarious montage in Forbidden Broadway’s Greatest Hits at Dundalk Community Theatre (CCBC Dundalk). Carefully selected numbers from the show’s inception have been woven together for one entertaining evening (or afternoon for those matinee-inclined amongst us) and provides some much-needed laughter. Even if you’re not a musical theatre buff you will find the production entertaining, but admittedly those who are familiar with the shows being parodied will get the biggest bang for their buck.
Veteran Director Joey Hellman’s first musical production is inspired, funny and well-cast. Hellman has put together a cast of seven actors who dazzle the stage. Costume designer Kelly Williams Carlson delights with various costumes showcasing the artist/show being parodied, from an adult Annie red dress/wig to the peasants of Les Miserables. Technical Director Marc W. Smith keeps the set simple, as it was originally intended, and the use of the curtain and vertical shimmering drops that change color depending on the light being focused on them add a sense of Broadway pizzaz. Sound was a bit problematic on opening night, with quite a bit of microphone drone feedback and static crackling at times, but it always seemed to be brought under control relatively quickly. Vocal clarity was also a bit of a challenge at times. I say “a bit” because most of the time the lyrics were clearly audible, but at times they were difficult to understand and, as this show is a parody of Broadway classics, the humor is in the lyrics so it’s incredibly important to be able to hear them clearly. Balancing music and vocals are always a tricky matter, and for the most part it worked very well. The above-mentioned issues may very well work themselves out as the show’s run progresses.
Keeping true to the Forbidden Broadway concept, there is only one musical instrument, a piano, accompanying the cast. Music Director and show’s pianist, Charlotte Evans Crowley, is a maestro of the keyboards. This is an intense show to play and as the solo musical accompanist she does not disappoint. Fingers tickling the ivories from slow ballads to rousing fast-paced group numbers, Crowley is a talented bundle of energy at the keyboard and a testament to those often unsung-heroes of musical theatre (i.e. everyone but the actors themselves who we see on stage) who are instrumental (no pun intended) in making shows happen and who are equally deserving of praise.
The cast, as previously mentioned, is an intimate seven yet don’t let this number fool you. The magnificent seven are comprised of Makenzie Emmert, Ryan Garbee, Amanda Harris, Kendra Keiser, Casey Lane, Kemuel Vander-Puije and Tom Wyatt. It’s impossible to praise one without the other, but each of these actors have their own voice and, whether belting or smoothly crooning, they are fun to watch. The costume changes are a blur at times, and one can picture the quick changes that are happening in the wings, but everyone pulls their own comedic and vocal weight. Yes, there are a few standouts, but no spoilers here. As the saying goes, seeing is believing (go see the show). While all the numbers were well executed and sung, this reviewer’s funny bone was particularly struck by the “More Miserables” number (rotating stage anyone?), impressions of both Barbra Streisand (“Back to Barbra”) and Liza Minelli (“Liza”) and “Wicked”. Wyatt’s rendition of “It’s Too High” (“More Miserables”) was also a crowd pleaser.
For a fun evening out, and a welcome distraction from the day-to-day cares of daily life, come check out what’s been a forbidden pleasure for many for 42 years now. The show is not that long, the performers put their hearts and soul into it and, best of all, you will get to see a montage of many of the show’s classic numbers from over the years. It’s a win-win that is sure to amuse and, just this once, this is a forbidden event that you’re welcome to attend (we won’t tell)!
Running Time: Approximately 90 minutes with one 15-minute intermission
Forbidden Broadway’s Greatest Hits plays through March 10th 2024 with Dundalk Community Theatre located on the campus of the Community College of Baltimore County Dundalk in the John E. Ravekes Theatre— 7200 Sollers Point Road in Dundalk, MD. Tickets are available for purchase by calling the box office at (443) 840-2787 or by purchasing them in advance online.
