You don’t have to be from the ‘80s to love this nostalgic blast from the past. The Wedding Singer at the Warsaw Incline Theatre is a hit—complete with power ballads, teased hair, and more neon than a roller rink birthday party.
Based on the 1998 film starring Adam Sandler, this stage adaptation ups the ante with an original Tony-nominated score by Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin. It’s a pop-rock musical packed with flashy dance numbers, vibrant sets, and a cast that radiates charisma from start to finish.
The Plot of The Wedding Singer
Set in 1985, the story follows Robbie Hart (the endlessly charming Cian Steele), a New Jersey wedding singer with a heart of gold and some serious vocal chops. When he meets Julia (Maria Zierolf), a sweet and lovable waitress engaged to the ultimate ‘80s finance bro Glen (John Herndon), sparks fly. Their journey from friends to something more is filled with quirky detours, over-the-top antics, and heartfelt harmonies.
Excellent Leads
The chemistry between Steele and Zierolf is undeniable. They’re vocally stunning—hitting emotional highs and harmonizing with ease—and their portrayals strike that perfect blend of tender and goofy. And yes, they’ve both got pipes for days.
Tubular Supporting Cast
The supporting cast brings just as much energy and charm. Julia’s best friend Holly (played by the spunky Jenny Herndon) and Robbie’s bandmates George (played by Tyler Gau) and Sammy (played by Trey Finkenstead) (whose entrance deserves its own applause break) bring the laughs and round out a dynamic ensemble. I would be remiss if I left out comedic and delightful performances by Linda (played by Cassidy Preme) and Robbie’s Grandma Rosie (played by Emily Borst).
The choreography (by Zac Holman), especially in numbers like “Casualty of Love,” “All About the Green,” and “It’s Your Wedding Day,” is sharp, energetic, and downright electric—especially thanks to the powerhouse female dancers who light up the stage (Emma Hunt, Annika Jonker, Sara Cox, Karli Smith, Elizabeth Travnik and Mary Vosseberg).
And speaking of stage presence—Cian Steele is a true triple threat. Having seen him in past performances, I expected talent—but his ability to sing, dance, act, and still command the room with humor and heart is next-level. His performance alone is worth the ticket.
Overall
While the show leans heavily into its camp factor, it never loses its heart. That’s the real magic of The Wedding Singer: it’s self-aware, wildly fun, and just sentimental enough to leave you smiling. Sure, the New Jersey accents came and went, but what the cast may have lack in authentic regional dialect, they more than make up for in vocal power, comedic timing, and sheer enthusiasm.
In short, The Wedding Singer is a glittery, feel-good romp through a hairspray-filled time capsule—and this Incline Theatre production delivers it all with flair, fun, and a whole lot of love.
Tickets to The Wedding Singer
Check it out now through May 11th. Get tickets to The Wedding Singer HERE.
Note for families: some lyrics and themes are a bit mature, so this one’s best for audiences 13 and up.
