Looking for something to do, something fresh or something new? How about Something Rotten? This up-and-coming musical comedy is everything Broadway has to offer–shaken up with a twist. Now playing at the St. James Theatre on West 44th Street, Something Rotten is a bold and brilliant rendition of the development of Arts and Culture through the 90s. This performance explores dimensions of innovation linking the creative spark of the Renaissance in the 1490s to the dimensions of cultural innovation in the 1990s. The dynamic history of Broadway comes to life through show stopping numbers and multifaceted characters that will have you entertained and wanting more.
Something Rotten was written by Karey Kirkpatrick and John O’Farrell, with its music and lyrics by brothers Wayne and Karey Kirkpatrick. Together this team has captured the life of Broadway musicals through a modern spin on old classics. Using the works of William Shakespeare and Broadway Theater, Something Rotten comments on today’s rotten society in a comedic and refreshing way.
Something Rotten tells the story of Nick and Nigel Bottom (played by Brian d’Arcy James and John Cariani, respectively), two brothers trying to make it in the world of theatre who are overshadowed by the all-too-famous playwright, William Shakespeare (Christian Boyle). If you’ve ever taken a high school English class, I’m sure you’ve heard of this rock star, often referred to as “The Bard.”
Now before you roll your eyes, I know what you’re thinking, “God I hate Shakespeare, all those clichés, and made up words…” Well you’re not alone. Something Rotten joins Nick Bottom in his desperate attempt to make a name in for himself and take on the idolized idea thief, a.k.a., Shakespeare. All he needs is a fresh take, something that will transform theater life like never before.
But new ideas are hard to come by, especially when his adversary William Shakespeare holds the will of the people and is always one step ahead of him. In his last attempt to salvage all that is left of his theater career, Nick Bottom ventures to find the soothsayer Nostradamus (Brad Oscar), who reveals that the next big thing in theater will be Musicals. Even more, this clairvoyant seer reveals Shakespeare’s greatest idea to Nick, propelling him into an over the top frenzy leading to the production of Omelet: The Musical.
Not only is this a brilliant satirical take on American theater, this play is rooted with a deep and meaningful storyline. The dynamic characters spotlight themes of gender equality, religious barriers, economic pressure and the struggles of staying true to one’s self. Something Rotten truly has something for everyone.
Bea Bottom (Heidi Blickenstaff) is well aware that her husband has hit rock bottom. She vivaciously assumes male dominated roles, i.e. a stool scooper /garbage man, and boldly exposes feminism’s “rotten core.” Her most dazzling number is titled “ Right Hand Man,” in which she uses her wit and prudent euphemisms to cleverly depict the sexist societal conventions of her time. She ultimately proves herself to be Nick’s “right-hand man,” rescuing him when he gets up to his neck in trouble.
Another pivotal character is the Jewish moneylender Shylock (Gerry Vichi). He is an intriguing character, to say the least. After the Bottoms’ backer backs out, Shylock is their last hope at funding one last attempt at a groundbreaking play. It is Shylock’s charitable enthusiasm for the theater that transforms The Bottom Brothers’ play into a reality. Nevertheless the role of the Jew is not without its stereotypical cracks and gibes. The nature of Shylock contains remnants of The Merchant of Venice, and not to mention a comedic remark in approval of the Nazis. Though Shylock’s goal is to help Nick, his involvement creates even more obstacles for the brothers. Nonetheless, the fast-paced nature of the play leaves little room for much offense.
These are just a few of the many complex characters in this lighthearted performance. Not only will you be amused and captivated, this cast will have you on the edge of your seat. Directed and choreographed by Tony Award winning Casey Nicholaw of Broadway’s Book of Mormon and Aladdin, Something Rotten comes complete with two jam-packed acts full of exhilaration and thrills. The temperamental feud between The Bard and The Bottoms and the strive for innovation, reinvention, and expectations reflect the fast-paced pressures of today while keeping an enthusiastic and upbeat flow.With over six showstoppers there’s no way you won’t be dancing in your chair. From tap dancing to line dancing, jazz hands and spirit fingers, Something Rotten has all that a musical promises and so much more.