The Crooning Crabcakes weren't able to get to Springfield High's gym in 1958 to entertain at the Senior Prom. Not to worry! On hand running for prom queen, four Marvelous Wonderettes bounded to the stage and filled in. Thus was born a jukebox musical, with lots of pop songs but much less plot.
Like the construction paper hearts decorating the gals' standup mics and the stage arch, the Golden Apple salutes the campy performance styles with director Larry Raben's still campier
interpretation. If the '50s and early '60s songs light up your life, the Wonderettes will win your "Respect" with their harmonies and energy.
Though harried, Kyle Turoff quickly assumes a stage manager's authority, whipping all in shape to greet "Mr. Sandman" while brandishing fitting "Lollipop, Lollipop" props. As tough Betty Jean, she carries on a tiff with supposed good friend Missy (pretty Sarah Farnam), really a femme-almost-fatale.
Carrying on the motif of trying to deal with romance, Apple regular Samantha Barrett is hardly recognizable in blond wig as Suzy, who doesn't have the best of boyfriends. Keeper of the blackboard "program" is bookish Heather Kopp. Her rendition of "Secret Love" surprises with its strong ending.
Between group numbers, each Wonderette gets a solo. The era's exaggerated gestures and dance moves provide many a laugh. An audience member gets to play Mr. Lee, the revered teacher. "The Chipmonk Cheer" is solicited from everyone, as are votes for queen. Election results bring hostilities.
Intermission ends with a return to the gym, now with daisy-trimmed decor, for the prom-goers' 10-Year Reunion. The "Dream, Dream, Dreams" of the Wonderettes have turned to reality. With music that reflects the same -- as do their costumes of pastel chiffon robes over matching mini-dresses -- they again perform.
Pregnant Suzy doesn't count on her husband's fidelity (via Barrett's sad rendition of "Lipstick on Your Collar"). Farnham's sexier than ever after encountering a "Leader of the Pack," yet her character finally makes up with Turoff's feisty one. The former "egghead" is a teacher who has married a teacher.
The performance ends with "Thank You and Goodnight." That will sum up your feelings if you come to see flamboyant camping and to hear the songs of the Wonderettes' eras. Though a good text is wanting, the Apple's live music is a definite plus.
