You know what?! We (didn’t) invent Post-Its!
Or the movie-musical adaptation. However, the off-Broadway adaptation of Romy and Michele arrived with an inherent sense of nostalgia balanced with a quirky, warm, and fuzzy charm. The show, which opened on October 28 at Stage 42, succeeds in translating the spirit and story of the cult-classic film 28 years its senior, to the stage – so long as the viewer goes in knowing what to expect. Camp, the heart of two best friends who never fully grew up, and a glittery tribute to a few decades back.
We’ll start with the show’s greatest assets – the charismatic leading duo. Led by the iconic Laura Bell Bundy and Kara Lindsay, who breathe infectious energy into their roles. You can tell they fully committed to honoring the original portrayal of the characters (most notably by Bundy’s accent and Lindsay’s choice of mannerisms). I appreciate casting actors who have lived experiences of the ’90s decade – to me, it deepens the yearn for nostalgia and times already had. The chemistry between the two is lively, eccentric, loyal and powerful. The audience can feel that they’re playing with each other and everyone in the audience – keeping even the most outrageous moments rooted in emotional connection.
Color, colors, colors, everywhere! It’s a bold and playful riot that unapologetically marries ‘80s neon and ‘90s nostalgia. It’s impossible to look anywhere else, but the stage and every look feels like an extension of the characters’ personalities. The set design elevates the show with an approach that feels almost dreamlike and plays into the show’s irreverent tone.
Musically, the show is pop-inspired and while some songs are catchy (and numbers well-performed and choreographed by Karla Puno Garcia), the songs are not always memorable. The songs move the story forward and help define the characters, but they’re clearly crafted to showcase the on-stage talent and evoke the nostalgic energy. I would have liked to have left the theatre with a song in my head (a la its predecessor in this genre of movie-musical adaptation, such as The Wedding Singer)
The book is written by original screenwriter Robin Schiff, which is why the tone and feel of the show feel so similar to the beloved film. While the show (directed by Tony-nominated Kristin Hanggi) is certainly self-aware, there are elements that seem to struggle a bit on a stage versus in a film, mainly when it comes to pacing. Theatre is a more immediate art form that provides the audience less time to process. There were times when jokes went on a beat too long or became redundant. There was a lot of screenwork, which was necessary for certain scenes, but felt like a default at times to move the story forward with visuals versus making changes to the show to fit the medium. What the show gets right is its sincerity and authenticity. When Romy and Michele reconcile and finally embrace who they are (rather than who they think their classmates want them to be) – it’s satisfying and uplifting to all in the theatre. A very similar feeling to watching the film.
Ultimately, Romy & Michele succeeds as a feel-good celebration of friendship and the original source material. While it doesn’t reinvent the adaptation wheel — it IS welcoming, creative, and undeniably fun. Fans of the film will enjoy themselves, fans of the colorful ‘80s and ‘90s fashion will be treated to a feast for the eyes, and for anyone who has ever experienced a personal growth journey or deep friendship – they’ll see themselves in this show. Sure, it’s imperfect, but lovable. And isn’t that the whole point?
You can learn more about Romy & Michele at https://romyandmichelethemusical.com/.
