The Cast Photo by Byrdseyephotovideo

Based on the 1998 movie starring Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore, The Wedding Singer tells the story of Robbie Hart, a "successful" New Jersey wedding singer who is dumped at the altar by his fiancée Linda. With the help of his friends, and especially a reception hall waitress named Julia, Robbie tries to find self-worth, direction, love, and purpose for his life.

The book by Chad Beguelin and original film screenwriter Tim Herlihy generally follows the film outline, but has a number of plot variations which allow for a bit more efficient storytelling and theatrical antics. The three main differences are that Robbie now lives with his grandmother (who also melds with the old lady character from the movie), he goes to work on Wall Street for Julia's fiancé Glen, and there's a whole scene in Las Vegas where Robbie tries to stop Julia and Glen's wedding with the help of some '80s celebrity impersonators. There's a lot of '80s humor throughout, much of which is very funny. The story is fairly formulaic, with a good deal of crassness and camp mixed in, but has lots of romance and heart. Theatregoers may want to leave the kids at home, as this piece has far more adult language and content than the typical fare at La Comedia.

The mostly '80s pastiche score by Matthew Sklar (music) and Chad Beguelin (lyrics) has a few very good songs, though others match the decade's sound musically without quite achieving the quality and craftsmanship expected for Broadway show tunes. Many of the lyrics likewise have some funny period references, but are often too unsophisticated and merely adequate. There are a few extremely effective songs, however, which do lift the overall quality level much higher. The best new songs include the very catchy opener "It's Your Wedding Day," "Someday" (Julia's want song describing her desire to get married), "Come Out of the Dumpster," and "If I Told You," one of the most beautiful show tunes from Broadway during the 2000s. This duet for Robbie and Julia has simple, straightforward lyrics which bare the soul, and a gorgeous melody with lovely harmony and counterpoint.

Chris Beiser's work as director and choreographer is exceptional for this production. There are a number of very subtle yet effective choices that raise the overall level of the piece. The dances are a cornucopia of '80s moves, including a hilarious ode to Michael Jackson's "Thriller" and are best shown off during "Pop!," "Casualty of Love," and "Saturday Night in the City." Musical director Meghan Slowik has prepared the cast well vocally, though many of the lyrics are muddled due to a poor sound mix/design.

As Robbie, Brynoch Rammell is a great fit both vocally and acting-wise, presenting an easygoing, lovable loser persona. Two songs from the film, "Somebody Kill Me" and "Grow Old With You" (both written by Herlihy and Adam Sandler), also appear in the musical and Mr. Rammell delivers both skillfully. Allison Gabert brings a heightened perkiness and optimistic gullibility to the role of girl-next-door Julia. Her vocals are generally strong and well-suited, though her singing is weaker in some of the higher range. Ms. Gabert is very likable, and especially impresses in her section of "If I Told You."

As Grandma Rosie, Leeanne Greenberg is aptly campy and hilarious, and adds a lot of heart to the show. Meaghan Maher (Holly) is the best of the supporting performers, showcasing strong dance and singing skills throughout. Hannah Markley (rocker Linda), Jonathan Pedergrass (flamboyant George), Dyan Jackson (mullet-wearing "dude" Sammy), and Dylan Handkins (materialistic and misogynistic Glen) each make the most of their opportunities to shine. Many of the roles in general are not ideally cast, but the performers are certainly talented and work hard. The ensemble members likewise put forth ample effort and demonstrate many skills during the show.

Scenic designer Gabe Davidson tackles the many locations of the story with numerous smaller set pieces wheeled in for each scene. They convey the settings appropriately and capture the time period sufficiently. The costumes by Emma Gaskill are likewise appropriate to the 1980s and add a level of campy fun needed for the show. The lighting by Michael Lee captures the day-glo palette of the decade and is varied.

The Wedding Singer is an enjoyable and entertaining blast from the past that aligns with the resurgence of '80s nostalgia and contains a few outstanding songs. La Comedia's solid production features talented performers and excellent direction and dances.

The Wedding Singer runs through June 21, 2026, at La Comedia Dinner Theatre, 765 W. Central Ave, Springboro OH. For tickets and information, please call 937-746-4554 or visit lacomedia.com.