by Claire DeMarco
“Forbidden Broadway” opened Off-Broadway in 1982 and continues to this day to delight and engage viewers. Usually presented in a cabaret-style environment, “Forbidden Broadway” aims parody and satire at Broadway musicals.
It’s a fluid musical that has been updated over the years to include more recent Broadway musicals that were not part of the original production. Older productions no longer prevalent or known to younger audiences were often eliminated.
Some of the Broadway musicals skewered in this production include “The Book of Mormon” (renamed the “Book of Morons”), “Chicago,” “Gypsy,” and “The Lion King.”
“Forbidden Broadway” – don’t miss this laugh-out-loud adventure!
What a talented cast! Whether they perform together in a parody or separately, their timing and coordination are superb. Their singing is top-notch.
None of these skits work if any one of the four is out of sync (whether performing solo or with the other members). They play a myriad of characters, quickly shifting from one personality to another (with quick, multiple costume changes, too).
Eric Acosta, Marshall Benton, Autumn Papczynski, and Jamie Spurrell are a well-balanced and unique group of talented actors. With perfect comedic timing and excellent vocals, they own the stage as they seamlessly transition from one unique character and parody to another.
Papczynski turns our sweet little “Annie” into a smoker turning 30 “Tomorrow.” She hasn’t worked since “Annie.” She is still attired in the red dress and red curly wig. “Hamilton” doesn’t escape ridicule as Papczynski adds a variation of rap to her delivery.
Playing Mary Poppins as the upright, good English nanny, Spurrell blasts Disney with a smile on her face. As Liza, she adopts the characteristics and flamboyance of Liza Minnelli. Spurrell has a powerful voice.
Benton reaches the high notes brilliantly in “It’s Too High”, a parody of “Bring Him Home”. He manipulates two puppets while singing “You Gotta Get a Puppet” to the tune of “You Gotta Get a Gimmick” from “Gypsy.”
Acosta skillfully and comedically portrays a character from “The Lion King”. Initially beginning with an Africa-like chant, he segues into “The Circle of Mice,” a playful rendition of “The Circle of Life.” He is convincingly funny as the phantom in “Phantom of the Opera.”
Just as energetic is “Fiddler on the Roof,” where the group of four works together.
Note: So, did “Les Miz” face “Forbidden Broadway’s” innovative satire, even if the story centers on a character pursued by the police, a dying mother, and a revolution? Of course! Apparently, nothing is sacred.
“Forbidden Broadway” was created and written by Gerard Alessandrini.
The set has a cabaret-style setting. The only props are those held by the cast as they perform each skit.
Note: The one prop not handheld was the obligatory crystal chandelier from “Phantom” that made a brief appearance.
The fifth performer is Music Director Douglas Levine, whose piano accompaniment is the final touch.
Kalyn Parardis’ costume designs are stunning. Considering the many costume changes required for this production, they are detailed, creative, and unique.
-CED
“Forbidden Broadway” is a production of Point Park University Conservatory Theatre Company. Performances run from March 4th to March 8th at the Pittsburgh Playhouse, 350 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. For tickets and additional information, click here.
