Half Baked Theater

As an unrepentant theater addict, I could argue that a show is much like a cake.  To obtain the best product, one must demand the highest quality ingredients, pay slavish attention to each preparatory step, provide just the right amount of time baking in the oven, and offer a stellar presentation to those that sit down to the feast. 

Using this rather lame analogy, last night's presentation of Bonnie and Clyde at the La Jolla Playhouse could be called half baked.  The ingredients are good - music by Frank Wildhorn (his prior confections include Victor/Victoria, Jekyll & Hyde, and The Scarlet Pimpernel), book by Ivan Menchell (Chitty Chitty Bang Bang), lyrics by Don Black (too many accomplishments to mention), and direction/staging by Jeff Calhoun (Grey Gardens, Big River).  All were in attendance last night with Calhoun delivering a charming ad lib welcome before the show began.  Strong performances by leads Laura Osnes/Bonnie and Stark Sands/Clyde.  Songs that largely deliver on the 1930's feel of the time.  Clever, yet simple staging.  The production has real quality. 

So, half baked, eh?  Yep, but not for the reason you think.  Much like peeking into the oven before baking is complete, there are only hints of what may get served on your plate.  Last night's performance was, in fact, only the second open to the public.  Calhoun's intro made it clear that what we were to see was not the final product.  It seemed clear that some aspects of the show worked well while others were weak and clearly needed more baking time.

Will Bonnie and Clyde be a success?  No way to know.  But it was certainly a treat to be in the kitchen.