Like spaces for nine of TV's old "Hollywood Squares," Beowulf Boritt's three-tiered set is a backstage scene. Before the performance, audiences can see actors putting on make-up, sound and stage manager going over cues, and musicians warming up. Clearly, they are exemplifying the title of this "Reimagined Musical," most of the action of which will happen downstage. The backstage wall will often contain projections connected with the work being described or sung about (e.g., fast food pix for the delivery boy of same).
Since 1978, the musical version of Working, interviews with people telling about their work, has been a favorite of community and school theater. It's now revitalized and revised, with composer Stephen Schwartz, especially, aiming for Broadway or at least nearby.
A group of only six actors now play multiple roles. Computers are in evidence of the updating of jobs chosen for highlighting, but there are still poignant accounts of what it's like to make a difference as a firefighter or what joy can come from being the best waitress possible. From a corporate executive to a banker to a delivery person, each stresses his relevance. Less confident are women like the stay-at-home mom or the very experienced teacher whose background has nevertheless not prepared her for the changes in today's classroom. It would seem, though, that repetitive factory work hasn't changed much at all.
The actors lose no opportunity to differentiate their characters, even physically. When Danielle Lee Greaves switches clothes and wigs to portray a prostitute, gasps can be heard. Nehai Joshi garners instant laughs for his telephone answering service...from India. Clothes help make the different women Liz McCartney plays. There's no standout, though, because all the actors fit as if they were in a reality show.
Music fits each character and situation. No one song stands out, therefore, but all are right. To numbers by Schwartz, James Taylor, Micki Grant, Craig Carnelia, and Mary Rodgers have been added new ones by Schwartz and current Broadway favorite Lin-Manuel Miranda. Because everyone works on clarifying the show's new vision, it works. Not a real square in the lot.
