WHAT: Spongebob Squarepants WHERE: Rochester Opera House BLURB: An All-age Musical HIGH POINT: Some incredible performances Spongebob Squarepants is a hoot, plus, it's a stellar all-age, summer production. There's no need to be a fan of the eponymous, animated TV series it's based on to enjoy it - this reviewer is not, but did. All that's required is the desire for a bit of fun and fantastical escapism, delivered up by incredibly talented performers. If that's you - put the brain on autopilot and jet on over to Rochester Opera House, for some real silliness, and "wicked" smart artistry. Here we find SpongeBob as his usual happy-go-lucky self, enthusiastically moving through life, and finding the best in it. Sure, he has his problems, but he always finds a way to rise above adversity - at least till now. But disaster looms. Will life finally beat him down? Is he really just a simpleton sponge? Can he and his buddies save the town from total destruction? Well what do you think!? The core of this production, and the key to its success is Michele Faria as SpongeBob. Yes, every featured artist is on point and the ensemble right-smart as well (we'll get there). But Faria's performance is at the center of the piece, and undoubtedly it's heart. Faria IS SpongeBob; sweet, and adorable, with a goodness that just shines through. Faria's body language and facial gestures are impeccable, every move a marvel and delight to watch; her performance is fascinating. And then there's that killer voice.
While the score is a collection of works by renowned performers (David Bowie and Brian Eno, and Cyndi Lauper and Rob Hyman to name a few), and fitting to the show, few give the voices an opportunity to really shine. Luckily there are some, two examples "Simple Sponge" (by Panic at the Disco), and "(I Guess I) Miss you" (by John Legend), which allows Faria and Faria and Tobias Laber-Smith as Patrick, respectfully, to stretch their incredible pipes Laber-Smith also nails his role as Patrick the starfish, Squarepants' pink sidekick; likable, amusing, and dense as a brick wall.
It's easy to get lost in the performances as each actor morphs into their cartoon role. Especially notable are those with the quirkier personas, such as William Hartery as Eugene Krabs (what a voice!), and Benjamin Hanley as Squidward, again, two deft, and gratifying deliveries.
This vein runs right through the featured cast, Paige Morin as Sandy Cheeks, Dereck Atwater, as Plankton, Sam McLaughlin as Perch Perkins, Miranda Simonne as Mrs. Puff, and Alexis Boce as Pearl Krabs; all talented, and to a person sporting a terrific voices. The ensemble follows suit, collectively they create a truly pleasurable choir.
Director Billy Butler appears to have had a good time putting this one up, he certainly infused it with a major dose of high spirits. His characters' development/deportment is mindful, the staging interesting, and the small bits of business enriching.
The production wasn't flawless on opening weekend. Some dance routines weren't perfectly synced, something that will naturally right itself by the second weekend. It's a small thing, but noticeable.
The second issue is costuming. Some of it is absolutely perfect, quick examples - SpongeBob, and the Mayor. Both perfect hits, as were some others. Still others were less successful in design, or showed construction issues. Some of this is likely a budget issue.
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