Silly, loopy, zany, corny “ there are endless adjectives to describe Civic Theatres "The SpongeBob Musical," but one things for sure, the show on stage at Civics 19th Street Theatre in Allentown is tons of fun.
Anyone familiar with the animated series "SpongeBob SquarePants," will quickly recognize the familiar characters and situations. On opening night the audience roared every time a new character from the cartoon set foot on stage. The nominal story about SpongeBob and friends trying to save their home of Bikini Bottom from a volcano provides the set-up for the show to recreate situations from the hit series.
Even before the show starts, Patchy the pirate ( a goofy and hilarious Shaun Hayes) sneaks on stage to talk to the audience before being chased by "security." He is back at intermission with a corps of pirates to lead the crowd in a rowsing round of "Poor Pirate."
Patrick Mertz is SpongeBob and he IS SpongeBob. Mertz channels the cartoon character flawlessly from his on-the-mark facial expressions to his loosey goose mannerisms. He also recreates SpongeBobs distinctive high pitched voice while managing to sound great vocally on songs like "(Just a) Simple Sponge," and "Best Day Ever." Mertz nails SpongeBobs relentless optimism and appealing naivete and makes him the beating heart of the show.
Andrew Mark Schaffers Patrick Star also pays homage to the show with his portrayal of the none-too-bright, child-like sea star. Schaffer physically embodies Patrick with his signature blank looks and clueless cheerfulness.
Miki Fuentes is an appealing and determined Sandy Cheeks, the brilliant squirrel who comes up with a plan to save Bikini Bottom.
Jaedon Mughls ever pessimistic Squidward is as sad a sack as you would ever expect and Mughl nails Suidwards flat nasal voice. His costume is great and his dance numbers are a hoot.
Joemichael Luciano Zaragoza is amusingly selfish and gruff as Mr. Krabs while Janaya Morgan demonstrates her impressive pipes as Krabs daughter Pearl in their duet on "Daddy Knows Best."
Doug Ace is hilariously diabolic as Mr. Krabs' fast food rival Plankton; and he and Grace Nyberg as Karen the Computer have crackling chemistry.
As doom-reporting newscaster, Dylan D. Miller demonstrates his bass notes on "No Control."
A group of colorful sardine groupies played with flare by Sebastian Paff, Maggie Fajaroo, CJ Coffin, Lucinda Loftis and Dylan Dueh add some memorable solos to the gospel-flavored "Super Star Sea Star."
The production numbers, like the catchy "Bikini Bottom Day" are exuberant, energetic and definitely fun to watch.
Other nods to the series such as the French-accented narrator (Ryan Murphy) and wacky sound effects by onstage foley artist Tracy Ceschin enhance the show.
Director Bill Sanders attention to every detail make the show a near immersive experience.
Will Morris lighting design gives an appropriately underwater feel, and Morris and Jan Joyces set is atmospheric without being too literal.
Kudos to Kim Danish for the perfect hair designs.
Performances are 7:30 p.m. Oct. 8, 14-15, 20-22; and 2 p.m. Oct. 9, 16 and 23.
Tickets are $32 and $25 for adults; $32 and $23 for seniors, students and military; and $13 and $10 for children age 13 and younger. There will be a "pay what you can" performance Oct. 20.
For tickets call 610-433-8903 or go to civictheatre.com.