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Regional Reviews: Phoenix Tarzan Also see Gil's reviews of Ragtime and Broadway Night
The musical, which is based on Edgar Rice Burrows novel "Tarzan of the Apes" and the beloved 1999 movie, follows the journey of Tarzan, a young boy who is raised by gorillas in the jungle after being orphaned when his shipwrecked parents are killed by a leopard. As he grows up, he struggles to reconcile his human identity with the world he has always known. When a group of explorers, including the curious and kind-hearted Jane, arrives, Tarzan is introduced to a new way of life that challenges everything he thought he understood about himself and his place in the world. The story unfolds as a tale of self-discovery, belonging, and the search for where one truly fits. The score by Phil Collins retains many of the recognizable songs from the film while expanding the musical landscape with songs that tie directly into the style of the movie songs. David Henry Hwang's book incorporates additional material which, like the score additions, helps deepen certain relationships and moments, though the adaptation does streamline and shift some narrative moments from the film. The show leans heavily into ideas of identity, family, and connection across differences. While it remains an enjoyable and heartfelt piece, it does not quite reach the same level as other Disney animated film to stage adaptations, though it still offers plenty of charm, energetic moments, and emotional appeal. Laura McGinnis' direction plays up the fun and energetic moments while also ensuring the focus is on the central themes of family and friendship, using the large ensemble to great effect throughout the production to drive home these themes. The choreography by Kebra Laidlaw and Claudia Cadena is lively and often playful, giving the cast numerous opportunities to showcase the unique traits of their characters and their animal characteristics through thoughtful movement. Victoria Sherrard's expansive set design and the projections by Donell Burks create a lush and immersive jungle environment that surrounds the action. The costumes by Alexis Stoltz and Tracy Stoltz and hair and makeup designs by Lily Gray and Alexis Stoltz and Tracy Stoltz are vibrant and imaginative, with clever nods to the many animals portrayed by the ensemble. Logan Farrington's lighting delivers some impressive stage images. Even though not every member of the cast is a polished vocalist, the music direction by Kinsey Baumann skillfully blends the voices into strong, cohesive harmonies that support the overall sound of the show. The entire cast deliver spirited and energetic performances. Tarzan is brought to life by Noah Weaver with impressive physicality and athleticism. Weaver fully commits to the role's demanding movement requirements (including swinging above with the help of the overhead fly system) while also doing a lovely job capturing the character's conflicted feelings on his emotional journey. As Jane, Grace Matejsek is endearing and spirited, ensuring the character's curiosity and warmth shine through in a delightful and truly lovely performance. As Kala and Kerchak, Tarzan's adoptive parents, Kimberly Anderson and Caleb Schreckengost provide clear and grounded emotional stakes in portrayals infused with sincerity and strength. Killian Thompson is a standout as Terk, Tarzan's ape friend, in a performance that's full of personality and humor, while Simon Gary offers many comedic moments as Jane's bumbling but intelligent father. The hunter Clayton serves as a suitably imposing antagonist in the plot, and Zachary Ross adds tension and conflict to the story in the fairly two-dimensional role. The large ensemble have a blast as they swing from vines and bungee jump out into the audience. While it may not be on par with such other Disney animated film to stage adaptations as Beauty and the Beast or The Lion King, Tarzan in this production succeeds on the strength of its energy, heart, and visual creativity. The dedication of the cast and creative team make it a fun and engaging theatrical experience. Tarzan runs through May 2, 2026, at Shine Theatre Company, with performances at Highland Church, 9050 E Pinnacle Peak Rd, Scottsdale AZ. For tickets and information, please visit www.shinetheatre.org. Director: Laura McGinnis Cast: |
