Music Theater Works presents JIMMY BUFFETT’S ESCAPE TO MARGARITAVILLE.
Rachel is a career-focused scientist. Tammy is a dieting bride-to-be. When winter turns brutal in Cincinnati, the friends escape to Margaritaville. They arrive on the island to find the tequila flowing, the people chilling and the wifi missing. The vibe is warm and welcoming! Tammy quickly befriends Brick, a bartender afraid of turning insurance salesman. And Rachel repels Tully, the local guitar-playing Casanova. Exploring a dormant volcano brings unexpected revelations for the foursome.
The appeal of this show is Jimmy Buffet nostalgia for Parrotheads and anyone that has sung out ‘salt’ or ‘screw’ at a bar. Buffett’s iconic songs are the score for the musical. Buffett (music and lyrics) became legendary singing about the simplistic pleasures of margaritas, cheeseburgers, flip-flops, and drinking. His messaging was to enjoy the pleasures of living. And his tunes anchor this show in a fun vacation-mode. The book by Greg Garcia and Mike O’Malley could have used more work. Although some of the dialogue is witty and set-ups are amusing, the storylines often ramble into lampoon. Its convoluted plotting adds length without deepening the story or sharpening the comedy.
Breathe in. Breathe out. Move on!
Despite some issues with the book, Director and Choreographer Brenda Didier knows how to put on a show! Didier uses a talented ensemble to lift the R&R level to infectious. The choreography has an easygoing exuberance. The dance numbers spill out into the audience encouraging singing, clapping, and shoulder-shimmying. An adorable Jacob Merschel (Jamal) is the perfect commercial for booking an island getaway. His playful, breezy dance moves beckon tourists -and audience members- to let go and enjoy the moment.
In the principal roles, Brian Acker (Tully) and Kate McQuillan (Rachel) overcome cliched roles to spark real attraction onstage. Individually and collectively, Acker and McQuillan give off the will-they-won’t-they-end-up-together as they sing about their aspirations. Dumping out their insecurities and desires from the first shot, Khaki Pixley (Tammy) and Chase Grabowski (Brick) captivate as a winsome pair. The full of moxie Pixley and the hilarious Grabowski are the couple to vacation with. They are funny, thoughtful and lead big spectacle showcases. Pixley belts out a lively rendition of “Cheeseburger in Paradise.” And an exuberant Grabowski faces his insurance fears at a percussion party in tap shoes. The energetic precision is impressive and uplifting.
JIMMY BUFFET’S ESCAPE TO MARGARITAVILLE definitely has its moments of intoxicating merriment. The feisty Tamara Batiest (Marley) and plastered Brian James (J.D.) add humorous oomph to the classic “Why don’t we get drunk and screw.” The show is like an adult recess from life’s pressures. What does ‘wasting away again in Margaritaville’ really lead to? …. leaving your troubles behind and soaking up the sunny rays of an island vacay for a few hours. I’ll drink to that!
Running Time: Two hours and 20 minutes includes an intermission
North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd.
Book by Greg Garcia and Mike O’Malley
Music and lyrics by Jimmy Buffett
Directed and choreography by Brenda Didier
Co-direction by Sarafina Vecchio
Co-choreography by Clayton Cross
Music direction by Linda Madonia
October 16, 17, 23, 24, 30, 31 at 7:30pm
October 17, 18, 21, 24, 25, 28, 31, Nov 1 at 2pm
November 1
For more information or tickets
Production photos by Brett Beiner
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