Tick, Tick…Boom! is one of the first Rock musicals of the 90’s. Jonathan Larson’s show brings us through moments of excitement, frustration, joy, and friendship one moment at a time. Amidst excellent harmonies, driving beats, and riveting movements, the seconds of our lives tick by…
The Plot of Tick, Tick… Boom!
Jonathan Larson is best known for the hit musical RENT. Before that, he wrote the book, music and lyrics of Tick, Tick… Boom! This semi-autobiographical story follows Jon, a composer struggling to break into New York City’s theatre scene. Jon is about a week away from his 30th birthday. A looming moment when he will either vault to success as a transformative musical prodigy or be forced to embrace a life of mediocrity.
Over the next hour and forty minutes Patrick Phillips leads us on a journey to see the world through Jon’s eyes. He shares sexual chemistry and excitement with his girlfriend Susan, played by Annika Jonker, during “Green Green Dress”. His best friend Michael, played by JT Langlas, ponders his corporate future and emerging health issues during “Real Life”. We experience a myriad of moments and emotions delivered with excellence. As the minutes tick by, you won’t be checking your watch… you will be waiting for the next moment of magic!
Tick, Tick… Direction!
Lyndsey Augusta Mercer plays double duty as Director and Choreographer of this engaging musical. Their vision creates an engaging show with a set and props that are simplistic but with surprisingly pervasive dancing and movement. This is one of the aspects which elevates this Carnegie production above a typical black box minimalist production. The audience is offered a feast of both auditory and visual gems throughout the show. I particularly enjoyed seeing iconic moves from 80’s films like “Breakfast Club” and “Ferris Buller” make an appearance on stage.
Tick, Tick… Music!
The music director, Matthew Umphreys, also plays double duty as the pianist for the show. His execution of this rock score is flawless, and he leads the small rock combo accompanying the show to deliver a tight and energetic performance. I must also complement the talents of Sound designer Mia Teboe. The band is well balanced with performers, and performers are amplified without feedback or static. It is easy to forget how much electricity and amplification is actually in play during this performance–which is a feat in and of itself.
Tick, Tick… Lights!
Lighting designer Julie Cowger uses a variety of instruments and approaches to create impactful moments throughout the show. There are mobile spots which highlight floating moments of focus. The stage opening is framed in an LED rectangle- reminiscent of the pervasive Neon signs of the 90’s. This occasional pop of brightness also adds to the rock ambiance throughout the show.
Tick, Tick…Jon!
The standout of this show is Patrick Earl Phillips. This quadruple threat portrays Jon with superb singing, acting, dancing, and piano skills. Patrick opens the show accompanying himself on a mobile keyboard for the number “30/90”. With energetic vocals and movement, it is easy to forget how hard it is to combine all these elements. We simply experience his excitement, anxiety, and passion throughout the performance. Phillip brings to life the quirky persona that was Jonathan Larson.
Tick, Tick…Susan!
Annika Jonker plays Susan (and others). With excellent control of her movement and expressions, she is clearly a dancer! Her skill with movement makes the character of Susan even more believable. Annika also holds up her end of vocal performances- executing a wide range of vocal harmonies and intensities to deliver compelling solo and ensemble moments.
Tick, Tick…Michael!
JT Langlas plays Michael (and others). His voice is quite simply like butter. I could listen to him sing for hours on end- and delighted in his finesse delivering vocal moments of endearment, humor, and sadness. JT held his own against the other two powerhouses of this show and especially made the trio moments of this show, like the brunch song “Sunday” super fun to watch as well as hear.
Tick, Tick…
Don’t let one more second tick by before securing your opportunity to see Tick, Tick… Boom! At the Carnegie this summer. This expertly choreographed performance is enjoyable from start to finish!
Tick, Tick…Tickets to Tick, Tick…Boom!
This timeless Rock Musical runs for only two weeks at the Carnegie in Convington, KY, July 19 – 28, 2024. Showtimes on Friday and Saturday are at 7:30pm, Sunday matinees are at 3:00pm.
Pricing ranges from $18-$40 depending on age and seating position.Visit https://thecarnegie.com/whats-on/tick-tick-boom/ to purchase tickets online (additional fees apply) or call 859-957-1940
