To See or Not to See: Something Rotten!

If you didn’t fall asleep during your high school english classes, you might remember a thing or two about William Shakespeare. The poet who wrote “Romeo and Juliet”. Yeah, that guy. Something Rotten! is a delightfully charming musical that tells the story of how the bodacious bard and writers Nick and Nigel Bottom fight for the title of best writer of the Renaissance Era.

As an avid fan of any Jujamcyn Theatres produced show, I have to admit I held Something Rotten! to high standards. I’m pleased to say it exceeded all expectations.

SAG Award winner Brian d’Arcy James excels as Nick Bottom, the zealous writer who loves his younger brother Nigel (John Cariani) as much as he hates his arch nemesis “Will” Shakespeare (Tony Award^® winner Christian Borle). When he struggles to write a play that impresses his fellow Elizabethans, he reluctantly accepts the succor from local soothsayer Nostradamus (Brad Oscar). With the help of his dubious brother, Nick sets out to write the very first musical.

This show is a triple threat; impressive acting, obnoxiously catchy songs and…feminism? The audience gets a taste of girl power thanks to Nick’s lovable wife Bea (Heidi Blickenstaff). By breaking gender norms, she proves that a woman is much more than just a secondary character. For a show set in the 1590s, Something Rotten! does an impeccable job at shedding light on how women are victims of stereotypes off and on stage. Writers John O’Farrell and Karey Kirkpatrick portray common motifs in a satirical but thought-provoking way. The audience is left thinking about how they view modern day musicals and why they don’t question their “rules”.

In typical musical theatre fashion, this show is full of romance, life lessons and an ensemble that shines. I had to buy the cast recording right after the show because I caught myself singing the songs the second I left my seat. These voices are out of this world and the lyrics are almost too good to be true.

It’s no surprise Brian d’Arcy James’ face is all over the big screen lately. This man can act. He can also work it in leather boots. His chemistry with John Cariani and Heidi Blickenstaff is endearing and they do a splendid job of depicting a supportive family. The few scenes all three of them share will leave you squealing “aww” aloud. Christian Borle, who won the Tony Award and Drama Desk Award for his role, illustrates an animated but somewhat suspicious side of Shakespeare that you won’t find in textbooks. He’s a charming and seductive antagonist that we can’t help but fall for. I also want to acknowledge Brad Oscar’s comedic delivery. I guarantee that he’ll have you in tears with his memorable one-liners and goofy demeanor.

Final verdict: Something Rotten! is an irresistible ode to musicals which makes it a must-watch for Broadway fans. Your belly with ache from laughing so much thanks to the hilarious sexual innuendos and double entendres, Will’s flamboyant behavior and Nigel’s adorable naivety. It’s easy to pick up on all the musical theatre references (Chicago, Rent and Annie just to name a few) and you’ll actually learn something. I am proud to share with you all that I can now recite the first quatrain of Shakespeare’s sonnet 18. Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?

MVP: Christian Borle. I never thought I’d love William Shakespeare as much as I do now but, well, here I am. Thanks Mr. Borle. Your awards were much deserved.

So…what are you waiting for? Buy tickets now. It would take all your Will power (pun intended) not to.

Photo Credit: St. James Theater