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Regional Reviews: Phoenix 13 Also see Gil's reviews of Churchill, Some Like it Hot, The African Company Presents Richard III
The story follows Evan Goldman, a 12-year-old who, after his parents' divorce, moves with his mother from New York City to a small town in Indiana just before his bar mitzvah. Determined to make new friends and throw the perfect party, while navigating shifting friendships, first crushes, and tough choices, Evan quickly learns that middle school can be a social minefield. The book of 13, written by Dan Elish and Robert Horn, perfectly captures the humor, drama, and awkwardness of adolescence with an honest and lighthearted touch. The story is fast-paced, funny, and engaging, filled with relatable situations that anyone who has navigated middle school can appreciate. Jason Robert Brown's score is energetic and contemporary with over a dozen catchy, pop-infused songs that perfectly express the emotions of the young characters. From the upbeat and humorous "Hey Kendra" to the heartfelt ballad "What It Means to Be a Friend," and the introspective closing number, "A Little More Homework," Brown's score balances comedy and sincerity while giving the youthful cast plenty of opportunities to shine. Under Nat Coe's warm and sincere direction, the Greasepaint cast deliver strong performances, demonstrating sharp acting abilities and energy that is infectious. Evan is a likable protagonist, and Luca Grasso does a very good job in letting us see Evan's eagerness to fit in while also learning from the mistakes he makes along the way. With an impressive singing voice, Kennedy Cook is wonderful as Patrice, Evan's quirky and kindhearted neighbor who stands as the show's voice of reason, while River Knight shines as Archie, the witty and determined handicapped boy who befriends Evan, providing comic relief and a big heart. Grasso, Cook, and Knight form a fun trio of friends with an abundance of warmth and realism. The supporting cast of characters represent nuanced versions of the classic stereotypical middle school popular kids. Tre Richards creates a strong character as Brett, the popular jock who is also somewhat clumsy in the ways of romance; Anna Scales is perfectly cunning and crafty as Lucy, the girl who schemes for attention; and Santhana Rajasundaram is appropriately warm yet slightly confused as Kendra, the popular girl struggling between loyalty and popularity. In smaller roles, Rob Foley and Samuel Roalofs are wonderful as two of Brett's buddies; their comic timing and mugging deliver big laughs. Presley Bonnett, Madeleine Lamont, and Riley Gerkin provide powerhouse vocals in the very funny "It Can't Be True" and the encore number, "Brand New You." The ensemble executes Olivia Feldman's upbeat choreography with enthusiasm. Coe's direction keeps the pacing sharp and engaging with the entire cast exhibiting great comic timing to ensure every joke lands and gets big laughs. Under Mary Ellen Loose's music direction, the cast exhibit good to very strong singing. The set by Chase Budden and Pete Bish uses a few moving and rotating set pieces to quickly transition from one location to the next and Stacey Feldman's costumes are fun, colorful, and character appropriate. 13 is a heartwarming and entertaining musical about the struggles and triumphs of adolescence. With its familiar themes, engaging story, talented cast, and high-energy performances, Greasepaint Youth Theatre's production is charming. 13 runs through March 2, 2024, at Greasepaint Youth Theatre, 7020 E. 2nd Street, Scottsdale AZ. For tickets and information, please call 480-949-7529 or visit www.greasepaint.org. Director: Nat Coe Cast:
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