Menopause the Musical
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Williams, Hicks, Waterbury, Wall
Photo by Ed Krieger
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By Ben Miles
Though the show (with book and lyrics by Jeanie Linders) had a small beginning, opening in a pint-sized perfume shop-turned-theater, in Orlando, Florida six-years ago, Menopause: The Musical--in production at The Laguna Playhouse--has since become a theatrical phenomenon. Currently onstage in more than a dozen U.S. cities, Menopause is also finding an international following, with productions underway in Australia, Israel, and Italy, as well as South Korea and The Philippines. What accounts for the popularity of this novelty act? Aside from the statistical weight of millions upon millions of menopausal women around the world, the likeable conceit and cleverly re-lyricized top-forty tune list add nerve and verve to this frown-breaking send-up.
With simple direction and choreography by Patty Bender, a live three-piece band, (musical direction by John Randall), and a give-all quartet of actresses, the baby-boomer hit-parade is transfigured into an ode to the change of life. The disco mantra "Staying Alive" becomes a mid-life melody called "Staying Awake." "Puff, The Magic Dragon" turns into "Puff, My God, I'm Draggin'." Tweaks have also been made to other pop classics such as "The Lion Sleeps Tonight," "Wishin' and Hopin'," "My Guy," and a particularly notable re-rendering of Irving Berlin's "Heat Wave."
The action is set entirely in Manhattan's Bloomingdale's department store (designed by Bud Clark), where the able ensemble of performers strut their stuff on various floors and specialty territories of the famed shopping behemoth (including an unlikely lady's room song and dance display).
Fredena J. Williams is dazzling as "Professional Woman." William's Tina Turner tribute is a near show stopper.
As "Soap Star," Julia Hicks puts the sexy in her slide and glide moves. Hicks is a magnetic performer. When she's onstage all eyes gravitate toward her.
Roberta Wall hits both the musical and comedic notes of her "Earth Mother" character with aplomb.
As "Iowa Housewife," Marsha Waterbury has an effectively entertaining transformation from wallflower to blooming sex-pert.
Menopause: The Musical demonstrates that change can be fun. The show is of a PG-13 nature.
For reservations, dial (949) 497 - 2787, EXT 1. For more details, visit www.LagunaPlayhouse.com.
Menopause: The Musical plays through September 2--Tuesday- Sunday at 7:30 P.M. Matinees are at 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The Laguna Playhouse is located at 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA.
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