‘The Spongebob Musical” – Book by Kyle Jarrow. Conceived by Tina Landau. Arranged by Tom Kitt. Directed by Nick Vargas. Music Directed by Jon Goldberg. Choreographed by Joy Clark. Presented by Wheelock Family Theatre at 180 Riverway, Boston, MA 02215 from October 5th to October 27th.
By Helen Ganley
An iconic yellow pineapple sits on the bottom of the ocean, the calm surface masking the hilarity below. Within a world comprised of kelp, sea anemone, and delicious hamburgers, Wheelock Family Theatre’s production of The SpongeBob Musical is a must-see bubbly adventure.
The SpongeBob Musical is a lively adaptation of the beloved animated series, set in Bikini Bottom as a volcano threatens to erupt. SpongeBob, along with his friends Patrick and Sandy, embarks on a quest to save their home, confronting challenges and the town’s quirky residents. Through catchy songs and vibrant choreography, the musical celebrates friendship, resilience, and the power of believing in oneself, all while capturing the humor and heart of the original show.
Max Connor stars as the eponymous main character, Spongebob Squarepants. Connor captures the nostalgic essence of Spongebob, and his delight is thoroughly contagious throughout every scene. Connor’s face is unwaveringly expressive, as he exaggerates each emotion to comic heights, accompanied by his pop tenor that carries every song, especially in “(Just a) Simple Sponge.” Connor is a standout, a powerful presence who brings levity, comic timing, and abundant talent to this role.
Despite the show having a one-name title, the story of Bikini Bottom wouldn’t be complete without its residents. Patrick Starr (Dashawn McClinton) trundled across the stage, delivering classic Patrick lines with the adorable ignorance we know and love. Their strong baritone contrasted with the twangy musings of Sandy Cheeks (Krystal Hernandez), who struts across the stage with intensity and a clear wit. Together with Connor, the trio created an incomparable team, especially with their harmonies in “Hero Is My Middle Name.”
Morose and bedraggled Mark Linehan owned the role of Squidward Q. Tentacles. His droll demeanor paired with the classic Squidward poses: slouched shoulders, wide-brimmed sudden smiles, and clarinet-playing. Linehan drew guffaws with his rendition of “I’m Not a Loser.” Reese Krebs wowed as Pearl Krabs, her impressive belt and spunky demeanor drawing focus during “Daddy Knows Best.” Together as Sheldon J. Plankton and Karen the Computer, Robert St. Laurence and Lisa Kate Joyce were an outstanding duo. St. Laurence’s voice was perfect as he concocted maniacal schemes in a well-timed rap in “When The Going Gets Tough,” combined with Joyce’s exuberance and moxie to create an unforgettable couple. Standout ensemble members included Caroline Larson Dipalma, Eli Schulman, and Felix Grigsby, who brought marvelous energy and character to every scene.
Saskia Martinez’s set design conjured Bikini Bottom beautifully. Chockful of beach detritus, each scene was full of moving pieces and references to the original show. Chloe Moore’s costumes captured each character’s essence, replicating their animated counterparts while still being intentional and put-together. Lawrence A. Ware’s lighting design and Gage Baker’s sound design worked in tandem to create picturesque landscapes, immersing us in the undersea adventure. Most notable was Peter DiMaggio as Foley Fish/French Narrator/Percussionist. Onstage the entire production, DiMaggio timed squeaky footsteps and suckered sardines, all while playing with the sunken orchestra.
In The SpongeBob Musical, the world of Bikini Bottom comes to life, is threatened, and is saved in this exceptional piece. Carrying on the legacy of the infamous original cartoon, Wheelock Family Theatre’s production will have all “ready” to applaud by the end.
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It’s a fantastic show. I hope readers of this review head out to the Fenway and catch this wonderful production!