Something Rotten! is something sensational | Arts Features

Something Rotten! premiered on the Muni stage as a boisterous, splashy and somewhat inappropriate parody that gleefully skewers both Shakespearean comedy and the musical theater genre itself.

“It’s an upbeat show that’s enjoyable for all theater fans,” said director Connor McNamara. “It throws an homage to classic productions and intermingles that with Shakespeare.”

This mash-up of 16th-century merrie olde England and 21st-century Broadway tells the tale of Nick and Nigel Bottom, playwright brothers who are desperately seeking theatrical fame. Unfortunately, the egomaniac Will Shakespeare doesn’t leave much room for competition. In a desperate gamble to write a hit show, Nick pays a seer, Thomas Nostradamus, to prophesize Shakespeare’s next successful play. The somewhat mixed-up fortune teller predicts the tragedy of Omelette (with a side of ham). Nostradamus also foretells of singing cats, nuns, fiddlers and newsies. Armed with what they believe is the making of a smash hit, Nick and Nigel set out to produce this scrambled mess – the world’s first musical. (The ancient Greeks would likely have a grievance here, but historical accuracy isn’t top of mind.)

The role of Nick Bottom finds its quintessential match in Nate Moss, whose performance is captivating. His formidable stage presence and lush vocals effortlessly dominate the expansive Muni stage. Moss’ physical comedy has the precision of a trained professional, and his dynamic opening number, “God I hate Shakespeare” is an absolute showstopper. Moss is truly the perfect Bottom.

Alec Glisson portrays Nigel Bottom, the neurotic but talented younger brother who needs a self-esteem class. Glisson’s version is beautifully sung and feels genuinely sweet-natured. This is perhaps because Glisson feels a kinship with his role.

“Like Bottom, I also have anxiety, but I’m using it to focus in on my performance instead of seeing it as a hindrance,” said Glisson. “It’s been wonderful to experience theater in this way.”

Kylan Davis is flawless as William Shakespeare, reinventing the Bard as a leather-clad, British sex god. Davis oozes smarm and struts about in a massive codpiece. His anthem, “Will Power,” is an undeniable crowd favorite. Not only does he smash it like a seasoned band front man, the staging is delightful. It feels like a real rock concert – in 1590.

Newcomer Nate King is hilarious in the unhinged role of Nostradamus. His infectious energy extends into the audience, and one would never know it’s his first time on this stage.

“So far the Muni has been a magical experience, and I hope everyone comes out to experience it, too,” said King.

Rounding out the cast is Jasmine French as Bea and Claire Carley as Portia – the Bottom brothers’ love interests. Both embody their characters with charm and impressive vocals, bringing vibrant heart and humor to each scene. French’s solo, “Right Hand Man,” is especially powerful and fun to watch.

The success of this prod

uction rests squarely with its staff. With costumes by Daphne Southern and McNamara, the cast was exceptionally dressed in period-perfect garb. Wes Bridges capably led the vocal direction, achieving a full and effective overall sound.

Director McNamara also masterfully designed the set (and likely built most of it as he called for his drill during this interview). There are countless purposefully English-kitsch set pieces in constant motion, light runners, working fireplaces and a particularly impressive, life-size dollhouse resembling the Globe – which transforms the large Muni stage into an intimate players’ theater.

It’s not just the set that doesn’t stop moving. Something Rotten! is an elaborate dance show that usually employs multiple choreographers. Tiffany Cantrall held this responsibility alone, and her choreography is brilliantly inventive. From tap battles to kick-lining eggs, there’s never a dull moment, and if you’ve ever wondered what an upbeat song and dance about the Black Death looks like – well, you’re in luck.

This relentless motion of set and cast fuels the show’s chaotic charm. One can only assume everyone is sweating buckets by curtain call. If you’re a true Shakespeare-phile, you’ll love how the show unfolds as traditional Shakespearean comedy with the rag-tag troupe of players, the unexpected lovers arc and the bloated egos of men who wind up humbled. With raunchy puns, giggly double-entendres, a fantastic cast and references to almost every popular musical ever written – the Muni’s Something Rotten! is a wild and uproariously good time that you won’t want to miss.

Something Rotten! continues its run June 4-7 at the Springfield Muni. Performances start at 8:30 p.m. and tickets are available at TheMuni.org or at The Muni box office beginning 90 minutes before each performance.