Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre’s penultimate offering for their busy 2025 season is Tootsie – a musical based on the 1982 movie which starred Dustin Hoffman. The adaptation by Robert Horn and David Yazbek changes a few circumstances, but is mostly loyal to the story of a “difficult” actor who is so desperate to find work that he auditions for a female role while disguised as a woman. When he gets the part, his lie turns into comic chaos and romantic pathos. Elizabeth Payne directs the B&B venture, with choreography by Doug King.
Jonathan Cobrda’s excellent vocal talents are highlighted in the dual roles of Michael Dorsey/Dorothy Michaels. His desperation and comic angst are well registered in this multi-level role, as Dorsey’s job frustration turns into success before becoming a myriad of problems. Cobrda also finds currency is his more emotional arc of love hoped for/love lost with his co-star Renée Jackson. Ms. Jackson (a 2017 Mitty Award winner) shines as Julie Nichols, the young performer who opens up to Dorothy, only to be struck down by his/her truth.
Michael (Jonathan Cobrda) tries to make friends with Julie (Renée Jackson). (Photo by Rob Slaven / IndyGhostLight.com)
Tyler Belo portrays Dorsey’s best friend Jeff, a pragmatic presence, and Payton Reilly takes the part of Dorsey’s emotional ex-girlfriend, Sandy. Both fill the stage with honest and energetic performances. Ms. Reilly’s song “What’s Gonna Happen” is a delirious romp into Sandy’s sharp anxieties.
Matthew Rella is a standout as the clueless Max Van Horn, turning the role into some of the best laughs in the show. Don Farrell is unquestionably slimy as egotistic director, Ron Carlisle, and Cynthia Collins is solid as producer, Rita Marshall. Jeff Stockberger makes the most of his brief appearances as Dorsey’s agent, Stan Fields.
As is usual, B&B manages to gather an impressive cast, on and through the ensemble members. This is a pretty “dancey” show, and everyone is on it throughout the entire production. Music director Kristy Templett does her expected great work with the orchestrations and vocals.
Costumes by Kathy Henry work well with the set and lighting from Ryan Koharchik. As always, Zach Rosing’s projections are an essential part of the show’s atmospherics.
Bottom line: Though it won’t ever be in the same realm as recent musical blockbusters, Tootsie is a very enjoyable theatre piece and this B&B cast works hard to make it a worthwhile entertainment. Please note that there are plenty of adult moments in action and language. This show is not suggested for pre-teens. Use your own discretion.
Tootsie continues at B&B through Nov, 23. Dates and times for performances can be found by calling (317) 872-9664 or by visiting beefandboards.com.
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