Did You See What Walter Paisley Did Today?
Reviewed by Julyza Commodore
La Mirada Theatre
Thru April 2
RECOMMENDED
In Randy Rogel’s new “beatnik horror comedy musical,” a sculptor, Walter Paisley (Steven Booth), struggling in San Francisco, feels as though he lacks skill. It isn’t until he starts working in a particular style that he is able to achieve fame and fortune. However, the same thing that catapults him to his highest of heights, is the same thing that causes his downfall.
The show opens with an upbeat number in a jazz cafe, “That’s Art” featuring a pretentious, blowhard poet named Maxwell (Ross Hellwig) and Company. It is both hilarious and entertaining as it takes us through a parody definition of art from Maxwell’s dubious perspective. Amusement is also found within the characters and their development. For instance, Walter’s neighbor, Mrs. Swickert (Kathy Fitzgerald) is obsessed with him in a way that’s decidedly warped, supported by Fitzgerald’s gail-force commitment. Of course, there is a woman, Carla (Vanessa Sierra) whom Walter has taken a liking to; Carla has big dreams of her own, and of course, Walter has a competitor in Maxwell. You get the idea.
Sierra’s portrayal of Carla is just magnificent, oozing passion as she sings and dances. Her voice is strong, yet delicate and beautiful.
Yearning for his big break as a sculptor, Walter is willing to do just about anything. Although he commits a shameful act, because of Booth’s portrayal, he becomes an anti hero you can feel for, in a Roger Corman kind of way.
Rogel wrote book, lyrics and music, and the songs, beautifully written and sung, linger in the air. Musical direction is by Andrew Orbison with musical supervision by Kimberly Grigsby.
There is not one actor who hits the stage and gives a mediocre performance, while the pacing remains brisk. Connor Gallagher’s choreography is also energizing and keeps up with the jazzy, bright numbers, complemented by John Iacovelli’s fine set design and David Lander’s lighting, all serving the tone for each scene.
Though it parodies the B-movie genre, which could feel derivative, the show feels fresh nonetheless — maybe because it’s so funny, with the story being so well told.
La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts, 14900 La Mirada Blvd, La Mirada, Thurs., 7:30 pm; Fri.-Sat., 8 pm; Sun., 1:30 & 6:30 pm; thru April 2nd. https://lamiradatheatre.com Running time: Two hours with intermission.
