Theatre 29’s newest production, “Don’t Hug Me, I’m Pregnant,” opened last Friday to a standing ovation. Managing editor Tami Roleff was in the audience, and says this musical will have you laughing at and with the characters in Bunyan Bay, Minnesota…
“Don’t Hug Me, I’m Pregnant,” directed by Marty Neider with musical direction by Kathryn Ferguson, opens with Clara, who is 8 ½ months pregnant, arriving at the Bunyan Bar, looking forward to her baby shower. But you can count on a freak snowstorm—or as Kanute calls it, a tsnownami, snowcastrophe, or snowlocaust, to set the play’s events in motion. Kylie Robinson as Clara is hormonal as she pouts and rages about her pregnancy and her husband Gunner’s lack of support. Randy Smith as Gunner is perfect for the part and his singing was so enjoyable. Jasper Falmog as Aarvid, the salesman for karaoke machines, er, lifestyle systems, was sweet as Bernice’s love interest. Leigh-Ann Crummet as Bernice portrays the sweet, old-fashioned, but spunky girlfriend. But it’s Jonathan Fries as Kanute who was the audience favorite and who stole the show. He was so comfortable in his loveable but oddball character. Everyone had a great Minnesota accent, and the set was decorated like a typical backwoods Minnesota dive bar. It’s a fast-paced, silly, and funny play that audiences of all ages will enjoy.
“Don’t Hug Me, I’m Pregnant” runs 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through June 4, with 2:30 Sunday matinees May 15 and 29. Tickets are $8 to $15 and are available online at theatre29.org or by calling the box office at 760-361-4151.
WE REVIEW “DON’T HUG ME, I’M PREGNANT” AT THEATRE 29
