I sometimes go on and on--in fact will continue to--about how revered the Los Angeles theatre scene deserves to be.
Club 27 at the Jaxx Theatricals is one overwhelming example for this view. Written, directed and choreographed by Jeremy Lucas, with music arrangement by James Lent, this premiere will remain a powerful memory methinks for the rest of my life.
Imagine if you will a blend of Cabaret, Pippin, and The Phantom of the Paradise (if you have not seen this last, correct this oversight ASAP). Such was my impression ten minutes into the show. Perhaps you've heard of this term, "Club 27"? Or not? It refers to the disturbing coincidence of just how many brilliant young musicians died at that age. Has little or nothing to do with the plot, but in context makes all the sense in the world.
The plot. Essentially two people arrive at a Club. Neither can recall how they got here nor for that matter who they themselves are. Bobbie (Sam DV Jones) at least recalls their name. Which is more than their companion can--although soon enough someone names him "Jolly" (Diego Huerta-Gutierrez). Rojo (Graham Kurtz) is the equivalent of the Club Own/MC, although even that is not clear. KC (Erin Lee Smith) is the current Headliner, although others have held that title before--up to and including Val (Cierra Watkins), Lizard (Brennan Eckberg), BJ (AJ Sear), Foxxy (Kyler Wells), and Pearl (Katrina Negrete) among many, many others. What follows proves a deeply personal yet universal journey through self-destruction, self-hatred, self-love (in fact all kinds of Love), pride, addiction, tragedy, passion, as well as both sacrifice and hope.
Including the Audience, who are definitely included as members of the cast. Along with Ethan Mullen, JD Morabito, Brian Whisenant, Jill Marie Burke, Collyn Taylor, Jackson Landreau, Olivia Stipo, and Trinity Pedant.
Despite the disclaimer at the top, spoilers would seriously impede on enjoyment of this amazing musical. Let me instead note two things: First, one theory about musical theatre says a song exists because it expresses something which cannot be expressed with mere ordinary words. Club 27 follows this notion, precisely, with in effect pretty much every single character opening their mouths as well as their souls sooner or later, often several times. Second--towards the end of Act II, I felt an impulse. Not a vague inclination or a charming, fun idea. For a few minutes my heart swelled with a desire to stand up and walk up on stage, to sing a specific song to one specific character.
Honestly, a greater compliment to the show, the performers, and the production is difficult for me to imagine.
And I absolutely mean it.
Club27 must close its limited engagement on October 30. Previews are 10/1, 2, 3, 8 & 9. The show runs 10/16-18, 23-25 & 28-30. Cheyanne Taylor plays Val on Friday nights. Sara Bunge* plays Jolly on 10/18 & 28. Amy Melendrez plays Terry on 10/23 & 25. All Wednesday-Saturday shows are at 8PM with Sundays at 7PM. The lobby, box office and bar open one hour prior to showtime and feature show-themed cocktails and mocktails. The Jaxx Theatre is located at 5432 Santa Monica Blvd. in East Hollywood, 90029. Parking is available at 1110 N. Western Ave.
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