THE GRISWOLDS' BROADWAY VACATION The 5th Avenue Theatre September 23, 2022 Eclectic Arts
THE GRISWOLDS' BROADWAY VACATION
The Musical
Book, Lyrics, and Music by David Rossmer and Steve Rosen
Directed and Choreographed by Donna Feore
The 5th Avenue Theatre
Seattle, WA
September 23, 2022 Evening Performance
The world premiere of “The Griswolds' Broadway Vacation” had the local Seattle patrons buzzing with excitement. Depending on your age, you know, and in many cases love, at least one of the “National Lampoon’s Vacation” films. The very thought of Clark, Ellen, Audrey, and Rusty traveling from their native midwest roots to the sights and sounds of New York really sounds like a fantastic idea. Of course there would be mishaps along the way until they reach their final destination.
Act I starts off in New York City. There is no traveling to be had so to speak. The quest for Clark to come through for Ellen and the kids is really at the center of the storyline. And, of course, seeing a live broadway hit called, “Wilson” (which is a take off on the Tom Hanks film, “Castaway”).
The tone of the production is light and captures the vibe of the films rather well. This should be fun and it definitely is (particularly Act II). Act I took some time to get things going. The musical numbers were written well but could stand a few less measures in some cases. More concision would be a great asset to some of the musical numbers.
The interplay between Hunter Foster (Clark), Megan Reinking ((Ellen), Livvy Marcus (Audrey), and Nathan Levy (Rusty) worked seamlessly. They are a fun and likable cast and the comedic timing was spot on.
When Act II begins after the intermission, with a full appearance by Cousin Eddie (portrayed by Jay Klaitz), the show really finds its footing. The heart of the production starts to come through in the Clark and Audrey scenes and the laughs definitely go up a notch (no spoilers here). By the end of the show, you will leave entertained.
Overall, “The Griswolds' Broadway Vacation” is a solid contender for replication around the world. A few tweaks to Act I and the show will be that much better for the audience.
If you’re in the mood to escape the outside world for a few hours, with genuine laugh out loud moments from your seat, this show is for you.
Best,
Mark Sugiyama
Eclectic Arts
Connect with Eclectic Arts: Social Media Links Here
“The Griswolds' Broadway Vacation” runs through October 2.
The Musical
Book, Lyrics, and Music by David Rossmer and Steve Rosen
Directed and Choreographed by Donna Feore
The 5th Avenue Theatre
Seattle, WA
September 23, 2022 Evening Performance
(Megan Reinking as Ellen Griswold, Hunter Foster as Clark Griswold, Livvy Marcus as Audrey Griswold and Nathan Levy as Rusty Griswold in "The Griswolds' Broadway Vacation" at the 5th Avenue Theatre. Photo Credit- Tracy Martin)
The world premiere of “The Griswolds' Broadway Vacation” had the local Seattle patrons buzzing with excitement. Depending on your age, you know, and in many cases love, at least one of the “National Lampoon’s Vacation” films. The very thought of Clark, Ellen, Audrey, and Rusty traveling from their native midwest roots to the sights and sounds of New York really sounds like a fantastic idea. Of course there would be mishaps along the way until they reach their final destination.
Act I starts off in New York City. There is no traveling to be had so to speak. The quest for Clark to come through for Ellen and the kids is really at the center of the storyline. And, of course, seeing a live broadway hit called, “Wilson” (which is a take off on the Tom Hanks film, “Castaway”).
The tone of the production is light and captures the vibe of the films rather well. This should be fun and it definitely is (particularly Act II). Act I took some time to get things going. The musical numbers were written well but could stand a few less measures in some cases. More concision would be a great asset to some of the musical numbers.
The interplay between Hunter Foster (Clark), Megan Reinking ((Ellen), Livvy Marcus (Audrey), and Nathan Levy (Rusty) worked seamlessly. They are a fun and likable cast and the comedic timing was spot on.
Jay Klaitz as Cousin Eddie in "The Griswolds' Broadway Vacation" at the 5th Avenue Theatre. Photo Credit: Tracy Martin)
When Act II begins after the intermission, with a full appearance by Cousin Eddie (portrayed by Jay Klaitz), the show really finds its footing. The heart of the production starts to come through in the Clark and Audrey scenes and the laughs definitely go up a notch (no spoilers here). By the end of the show, you will leave entertained.
Overall, “The Griswolds' Broadway Vacation” is a solid contender for replication around the world. A few tweaks to Act I and the show will be that much better for the audience.
If you’re in the mood to escape the outside world for a few hours, with genuine laugh out loud moments from your seat, this show is for you.
Best,
Mark Sugiyama
Eclectic Arts
Connect with Eclectic Arts: Social Media Links Here
“The Griswolds' Broadway Vacation” runs through October 2.
Purchase tickets: HERE!
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