By KEN KLINGENMEIER
Let’s start with this premise: Nobody doesn’t like Jimmy Buffett … oh, I guess there may be someone somewhere who dislikes the easy-going feeling of Buffett’s tunes and lyrics, but I’ve never run across them, or even heard of such an unhappy person.
Given that premise – what a brilliant idea to take Buffett’s song catalogue and weave them into a story of an island, an entertainer on that island, and the visitors who are come there to recharge. Thus, we have Escape to Margaritaville which opened last week on the B&B stage.
Shaped by director Douglas E. Stark, with musical direction by Terry Woods and choreography by Ron Morgan, the show is a pleasing romantic romp which entertains with an interesting set of love stories, plenty of humorous situations, and many colorful displays of music and dance.
Kyle Southern and Amanda Tong star as rakish island musician Tully, and work-bound island visitor Rachel. Both give excellent performances full of musical and acting dexterity. Their story arc is set along the lines of Boy meets/wins/loses/regains Girl, but they make it an interesting journey with apt and original characterizations.
A similar story is offered in a more comedic vein by Brett Mutter and Hannah Elizabeth Boswell in their featured roles as hotel bartender Brick, and Rachel’s best friend – visiting bride-to-be Tammy. Tammy’s prenuptial situation of being engaged to a clueless heel (played by Logan Moore) while being attracted to Brick leads to lots of fun situations that this duo presents peppered with jocosity.
A strong supporting cast, led by B&B regular Jeff Stockberger as island old-timer J.D., and Rachel Bibbs as hotel owner Marley, brighten the proceedings. Additionally, Ray Gleaves has several very nice moments as hotel worker Jamal. A large ensemble of players/dancers covers a long list of small roles and while filling the stage with Ron Morgan’s lively combinations.
Escape from Margaritaville is a bit sexier than other B&B shows I’ve seen (given the hardy audience participation for “Let’s Get Drunk and Screw”), and the playful sexual humor comes off well enough, but parents – be aware of what’s here.
The costumes by Travis M. Grant are bright and “island appropriate.” Plus, Grant provides a generous number of wigs for the production. Terry Woods and his small orchestra do excellent work with the familiar score. The set design by Michael Layton covers the show’s needs for hotel, hiking trail, volcano, beach, plus assorted off-island locations.
Bottom line: This is a surprisingly well-done, feel-good show. Talent-levels are high, and the story (book by Greg Garcia and Mike O’Malley) is interesting – taking the Boy/Girl arc to new and different places. I’d label it “thoroughly enjoyable.”
Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville continues at Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre through Oct. 2. Find show times and reservation info at beefandboards.com or call the box office at 317-872-9664.