UPDATE: The Off-Broadway musical adaptation of “Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion” is under fire for failing to capture the charm of the beloved 1997 film. The show, currently running at Stage 42, has been met with criticism following its opening this week, leaving audiences disappointed.
The musical, starring Laura Bell Bundy and Kara Lindsay, offers little more than a lackluster experience, described by some attendees as “as much fun as watching ‘Pretty Woman’ 36 times.” With a score penned by Gwendolyn Sanford and Brandon Jay, critics are underwhelmed by the generic Broadway pop style that fails to evoke the spirit of the late 1990s.
Originally showcased in Seattle in 2017, this adaptation attempts to recreate the film’s plot, where the titular characters invent fictional identities to impress their former classmates at a high school reunion. However, early reviews indicate that the humor and chemistry that made the film a cult classic are sorely lacking.
The production, directed by Kristin Hanggi, has been criticized for its all-digital set and visual gags that miss the mark. Despite a cast of ten, including emerging talent like Jordan Kai Burnett, the performance struggles to generate the audience engagement necessary for a successful musical.
As the show unfolds, it appears that the adaptation has failed to connect with audiences, leaving many questioning whether they should spend their money on tickets. With ticket prices exceeding three figures, the pressure is on to improve as the show continues its run through the fall season.
As reviews continue to roll in, theater-goers and fans of the original film are encouraged to stay tuned for any developments regarding potential changes to the production, or whether this reunion will remain as painful as the last.
