Almost Famous
Bernard B. Jacob Theatre
October 19, 2022
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| Photo courtesy of Almost Famous |
Cameron Crowe has adapted his movie Almost Famous
into an edgy, poignant, and vibrant Broadway musical. The characters are skillfully crafted, vulnerable, and daring. The action is driven
by Tom Kitt’s music and lyrics. Sarah O’Gleby’s
choreography enhances the action, defines the characters, and grounds the time
period. Director Jeremy Herrin pulls it
all together, leaving the audience with a stunning and emotionally fulfilling
ending.
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| Photo curtesy of Almost Famous |
The year is 1973.
William Miller (played by Casey Likes) is an intelligent high school
senior, being raised by an overprotective, single mother (played by Anika
Larsen). When his sister, Anita (played
by Emily Schultheis) moves out, she leaves him a stack of vinyl records. William gets lost in the music. He becomes an expert and begins to write
articles expressing his point of view. He
lands an assignment to write for a local rock magazine, which causes him to
meet the members of the band Stillwater, and more importantly Penny Lane
(played by Solea Pfeiffer). When Rolling
Stone Magazine contacts him about writing for them, they think he is an older,
experienced journalist. William jumps at
their offer and proposes an in depth story on the rise of Stillwater. Rolling Stone pays him to join their tour,
setting him on a life changing adventure.
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Casey Likes & Solea Pfeiffer
Photo courtesy of Almost Famous |
Casey Likes, who is making his Broadway debut, is
perfectly cast as William. His character
is naive, brave, and likeable. We
eagerly follow his journey as he dives into the fast-paced world of rock and
roll. Solea Pfeiffer is wild and free as
Penny Lane. She shares a few genuinely tender
moments with Mr. Likes that deepen the story and reveal her character’s many
layers. Her chemistry with Chris Wood,
who plays Russell Hammond, the lead guitarist of Stillwater, is magnetic. Mr. Wood is riveting in this dynamic and
mysterious role. These three actors portray
multifaceted characters who have a lasting impact on one another. Their relationships grow as the story
progresses, keeping the audience fully involved and emotionally engaged.
There are also strong performances by Anika Larsen,
Emily Schultheis, and Drew Gehling. As William’s
mother, Ms. Larsen creates a strong home base that continually calls to her son,
reminding him of who he is. This generates
a strong and effective tension throughout the story. Emily Schultheis’ character of Anita, William’s
sister, gives him the inspiration that propels his journey. She is honest and caring in this role. Drew Gehling’s portrayal of Jeff, the lead
singer of Stillwater, is full of bravado, instigating conflict between the band
members. This causes the darker side of
their characters to be revealed.
The entire cast is strikingly energetic. They all develop distinct characters that
illuminate the time period. The fast pace
is set at the top of the show, and everyone on stage works to keep the story moving
forward at lightning speed.
If you liked the original movie, you will love this
show. Almost Famous is playing at
the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre. Go see it!
Domenick Danza
