If nautical nonsense be something you wish … then drop to the deck and flop like a fish! Or, better, just drop what you’re doing and buy tickets to Community Little Theatre’s delightful performance of “The SpongeBob Musical,” now underway at the Auburn theater.
“The SpongeBob Musical” takes us to the well-known underwater town of Bikini Bottom, where we meet up with our favorite residents, including SpongeBob (played by Matt Scala), his adorable pet snail Gary (Maggie Waters), his flaky but lovable best friend Patrick (Noah Brown), the smart squirrel scientist Sandy (Mikayla Jane) and the cranky, clarinet-playing Squidward (Abram Dwyer), just to name a few.
The show is presented in the vibrant and silly style we have come to associate with the cartoon, complete with colorful jellyfish and bright coral scenery. However, when Bikini Bottom is threatened by a potential volcanic eruption, the story takes on a surprising depth and an unexpected sociopolitical theme.
As the residents of Bikini Bottom face their impending doom, we find the scientist who, along with her supporters, could save the day. We also have the science deniers who insist that everything is fine despite clear evidence to the contrary. We have those who seek blame and, in turn, choose their scapegoat. Some residents seek a savior, and choose a surprisingly unlikely candidate. And, of course, there are those who see the crisis as a golden opportunity for power and financial gain.
Scala, as SpongeBob, makes his CLT debut and proves beyond a doubt that he is not just “a simple sponge.” He captures SpongeBob’s boundless kindness and optimism with warmth and humor while still capturing the depth and complexity of an underdog turned hero. Scala’s ability to act, sing and dance while maintaining the well-known SpongeBob voice and mannerisms is absolutely phenomenal.
Accompanying him is, of course, his closest companion, the endearing starfish Patrick Star, portrayed by CLT newcomer Brown. Those who are familiar with the cartoon are aware that Patrick is kind-hearted and faithful, yet he is somewhat deficient in intellect and drive. Brown skillfully embodies Patrick’s fragility and resilience through his exceptional vocal and acting talents.
SpongeBob’s petulant and uptight neighbor Squidward is brilliantly played by Dwyer. Squidward sees the volcano crisis as a potential opportunity to showcase his musical ability and finally get some long-sought-after recognition. A standout moment in the show is the performance of the song “I’m Not A Loser,” which showcases both Dwyer’s vocal and dance skills alongside an impressive tap dance executed with an amazingly talented chorus line of sea anemones.
The one character who can potentially save Bikini Bottom is SpongeBob’s scientist-squirrel friend Sandy Cheeks, played by Jane, who comes to Bikini Bottom from Texas to work on a research project. Sandy’s scientific brilliance is met with skepticism. As the residents of the town, led by the cantankerous Old Man Jenkins (Ashleigh St. Pierre) seek someone to blame, Sandy quickly becomes the target. Jane captures the character of Sandy to perfection and her vocal abilities are outstanding.
Mr. Eugene Crabs (Anthony Delorme), SpongeBob’s frugal employer, perceives the crisis as a chance to increase his wealth. Whereas his daughter Pearl (Molly Gouette) holds a contrasting set of values and personal aspirations. The conflict between parent and child is highlighted in the entertaining yet meaningful duet “Daddy Knows Best.”
The mayor of Bikini Bottom, played by Megan Walz, endeavors to uphold order, while the villainous Plankton (Owen Lewis), along with his partner Karen the Computer (Karianna Merrill), seeks to sabotage the initiative aimed at rescuing the town. Additionally, we have the hyper-critical yet endearing Mrs. Puff (Amanda Robinson), whose questionable history comes under scrutiny. Meanwhile, the audience remains informed about the looming disaster thanks to the expert news coverage provided by Perch Perkins (Johnny Bolduc).
Of course, it wouldn’t be true SpongeBob without an introduction by Patchy the Pirate (Adry Viles) and the entertaining commentary of the The French Narrator (Alex Lally).
A special shout-out needs to go to the costume team. The characters were clearly portrayed without being overstated. Rather than precise portrayals, the costumes capture the characters through the use of color, the utilization of everyday items and just plain creativity. The same can be said for the excellent choreography.
A unique aspect of “The SpongeBob Musical” is music. Each song is composed by a different, but well-known musician, including Cyndi Lauper, David Bowie and Sara Bareilles. Each song possesses a distinct character, yet they harmoniously complement one another.
Overall, “The SpongeBob Musical” is a delightful surprise. And if you think that a pineapple-dwelling, burger-flipping, entertaining, yellow sea sponge is just for kids, you might want to think again!
The remaining performances of “The SpongeBob Musical” are this Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and a final performance on Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online at laclt.com or by phone at 207-783-0958. All performances are held at Community Little Theatre’s home at 30 Academy St. in Auburn.
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