“First Date, the Musical” opened last Friday night at Theatre 29. Reporter Rebecca Havely attended and offers this review of the production…
“First Date, the Musical” takes a modern look at the current dating scene. An unlikely couple, Aaron and Casey, are set up on a blind date at a swanky New York City night spot. Casey, played with snarky spunk by Katie Fleishman, is a guarded, tough, artsy New Yorker with lots of grit. Aaron, a nervous, nice guy is played by Chris Fleishman with exactly enough charm and humor to balance his nerdy side. The small ensemble plays a myriad of supporting roles and all have their moments to shine: Kevin Myers as bad boy ex-boyfriend, Leigh-Ann Crummet as a bride-zilla, Joe Rego as a singing waiter, Char Childs in a touching number as Aaron’s mother, and Lyle Williams is a crack-up as Casey’s gay best friend. Director Charles Harvey adds several clever directorial touches to this modern, edgy and exciting new musical which boasts a snazzy set with sleek lighting design that transports you to the Big Apple.
“First Date, the Musical” will run Friday and Saturday evenings at 7 p.m. and Sunday afternoons at 2:30 through May 20. For tickets visit theatre29.org or call the Theatre 29 Box Office at 760-361-4151 and ask about the Dinner Theatre offer with 29 Palms Inn. “First Date, the Musical” is rated PG-13 for adult themes and language.