‘Tick, Tick… Boom!‘ has dynamite performances with a lackluster book that is only enhanced by the talent on stage at the Chance Theater.
Susan (Lena Ceja) and Jon (Luc Clopton) in ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’ at Chance Theater. Playing from now through February 23, 2025 at the Bette Aitken theater arts Center on the Cripe Stage. Photos by Doug Catiller.
Chance Theater’s production of ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!‘ is a captivating theatrical experience, marked by stellar performances and expert direction. Directed by H. Adam Harris, this intimate rendition of Jonathan Larson’s semi-autobiographical musical shines through its cast and crew, though the songs themselves are the only aspect that keeps it from earning five stars. The weak book was only elevated through the strength of the performances of the three person cast. I freely admit, I did not like the musical, ‘Rent‘, who my hopes for the book of ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!‘ were quite limited.
However, my dislike of Larson’s work, including his autobiography with the book for ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!‘ will ever diminish my opinion of the performers and crew affiliated with the Chance Theater’s production.
Lena Ceja, playing Susan, steals the spotlight with a magnetic, emotionally resonant performance. She brings depth and authenticity to the role (and handful of other characters she portrays), captivating the audience with every moment. Luc Clopton, as Jon, delivers a grounded, humorous, portrayal of the young composer grappling with ambition and personal challenges. Mario Houle, in his Chance Theater debut as Michael, rounds out the cast as the yuppie facing his own mortality, completing a trifecta of performances that bring Larson’s vision to life in the most captivating way possible.
Susan (Lena Ceja), Jon (Luc Clopton) and Michael (Mario Houle) in ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’ at Chance Theater. Playing now through February 23, 2025 at the Bette Aitken theater arts Center on the Cripe Stage. Photos by Doug Catiller.
The production is especially powerful given the tragic context of Jonathan Larson’s untimely death due to a heart condition, just hours before ‘Rent‘ premiered on Broadway. ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!‘ now carries the weight of a Greek tragedy, yet its hopeful ending provides a bittersweet counterpoint to the loss of a man who changed a dying artform.
Director H. Adam Harris has crafted an emotionally powerful, yet sadly joyful, and intimate experience that allows each actor to shine. While the music sometimes falls short in comparison to the performances, the show still delivers a deeply resonant experience. Subtle Easter eggs referencing Larson’s ‘Rent‘ and an homage to Stephen Sondheim’s ‘Sunday in the Park with George‘, add layers of depth for fans familiar with his work.
The creative team, from Lex Leigh’s music direction to the scenic designs by Fred Kinney and Mio Okada, enhances the emotional core of the production. Though the songs may not reach the heights of the performances, the passion, artistry, and tribute to Larson’s legacy make this a must-see show. Chance Theater’s ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!‘ is a celebration of theater and a heartfelt tribute to a trendsetter, gone-too-soon creator.
To purchase tickets for ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!‘ visit the Chance Theater’s official website at: https://chancetheater.com/boom-tix/.
The Chance Theater is located at:
Bette Aitken theater arts Center
5522 E La Palma Ave.
Anaheim, CA 92807
Summary
Although Jonathan Larson’s work does not resonate with me, the performances by Lena Ceja, Luc Clopton, and Mario Houle in ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!‘ at Chance Theater make every moment worth experiencing.
