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Playing at BAM Strong Harvey Theater, Sep 18—Oct 20, 2024, Safety Not Guaranteed is a gem that's captured my heart so completely, I've already seen it twice and am eagerly planning my third visit before the curtain falls for good.
Based on the film of the same name, this indie-rock musical follows the movie's plot with impressive fidelity. At its core is Taylor Trensch's expertly portrayed Kenneth, an oddball who places a classified ad seeking a time-travel companion. His performance is a delicate balance of eccentricity and vulnerability that draws you in from the moment he steps on stage.
Nkeki Obi-Melekwe shines as Darius, a fledgling writer at Seattle Magazine who sees Kenneth's bizarre ad as her ticket to journalistic stardom. Obi-Melekwe brings a perfect blend of skepticism and curiosity to the role, making Darius' gradual shift from cynical reporter to potential believer entirely believable.
The supporting cast is equally strong. Pomme Koch's Jeff, Darius' boss, adds layers of complexity to what could have been a one-note character. His ulterior motives for the trip to Ocean View add an intriguing subplot. Rohan Kymal's Arnau, the office tech wizard, provides both comic relief and surprising depth as the story unfolds, though his character's arc seems a little forced, just as it does in the movie.
What sets Safety Not Guaranteed apart is its ability to blend the fantastical premise with grounded, relatable emotions. The original songs by Guster's Ryan Miller and Nick Blaemire's book work in harmony to explore themes of regret, second chances, and the human desire to rewrite our past. The music gets under your skin, with melodies that linger long after you've left the theater.
Two standout numbers, "What's Your M-M-M-Mission" and "One Man Wrecking Machine," showcase the show's musical range and emotional depth. The former captures the quirky energy of Kenneth's character, while the latter provides a poignant reflection on the consequences of living in the past.
One of the most impressive aspects of the musical is its use of complex harmonies and innovative choreography. When the entire cast comes together, the result is a stunning tapestry of sound reminiscent of Stephen Sondheim's work. The 4 and 6-part harmonies that weave through these ensemble pieces add layers of emotional resonance to key moments in the story. Complementing these intricate vocal arrangements is the show's choreography, which can only be described as controlled chaos. The movement on stage, much like the harmonies, is a delicate balance of seemingly disparate elements coming together in perfect synchronization. This choreographed mayhem mirrors the characters' internal struggles and the story's themes of unpredictability and faith in the unknown. The combination of these layered harmonies and the dynamic, barely-contained energy of the choreography elevates the material beyond mere adaptation to true musical theater artistry, bringing the songs to new, unexpected levels of expression and impact.
Director Lee Sunday Evans has crafted a production that feels intimate despite its high-concept premise. The set design by Krit Robinson is minimal yet remarkably effective, using clever touches to shift seamlessly between Seattle's urban landscape and the coastal charm of Ocean View. Sarita Fellows' costumes are a standout, adding significantly to the show's ambiance. Each character's attire not only reflects their personality but also subtly evolves with their journey, enhancing the storytelling without overpowering it.
As the story unfolds, you'll find yourself questioning along with Darius: Is Kenneth truly a time traveler, or just a man lost in his own delusions? The beauty of Safety Not Guaranteed is that it keeps you guessing until the very end, all while making you deeply invested in these characters' lives.
This musical asks us to consider what we'd change if we could go back in time, but more importantly, it challenges us to look at how we're living in the present. It's a reminder that sometimes the bravest thing we can do is to take a leap of faith, even when safety isn't guaranteed.
Since the musical follows the movie's story essentially beat-for-beat it basically adds nothing nor takes anything away from the source material it's based upon. There is a part of me that would like to see a second act and some of the storylines expanded a little, however, there's always the danger that doing so would dilute the charm and likeability of the existing story.
The musical's score introduces an interesting juxtaposition between contemporary sounds and retro influences. This musical blend serves as an auditory representation of the show's central theme: the intersection of past and present. The complex harmonies and counterpoints in the ensemble numbers add depth to the emotional landscape of the story, creating moments of breathtaking beauty that linger in the memory.
Another strength of the adaptation is its handling of the science fiction elements. Rather than leaning heavily into the mechanics of time travel, the show uses the concept as a metaphor for personal growth and acceptance. This approach allows the production to maintain a sense of magical realism without alienating audience members who might be skeptical of hard sci-fi.
The chemistry between Trensch and Obi-Melekwe is palpable, creating a central relationship that feels both unlikely and inevitable. Their duets are highlights of the show, blending humor and heart in a way that elevates the material beyond mere adaptation.
The single-act structure, while contributing to the show's momentum, sometimes leaves certain subplots feeling underdeveloped. Jeff's journey, in particular, could benefit from more exploration, as his character's growth provides a compelling counterpoint to Kenneth and Darius's story.
Despite these minor quibbles, "Safety Not Guaranteed" manages to capture the essence of what made the film so beloved while adding its own theatrical flair. The show's ability to balance whimsy with genuine emotional depth is a testament to the strength of the creative team and cast.
With its limited run, Safety Not Guaranteed is a must-see for anyone who loves thought-provoking, emotionally resonant theater with a dash of whimsy. Don't miss your chance to experience this unique and captivating show. After all, unlike Kenneth, we can't turn back time – so seize the moment and get your tickets now.
Safety Not Guaranteed has a running time of 1 hour and 45 minutes with no intermission.
In conclusion, this musical adaptation proves that sometimes, the most rewarding journeys are the ones we never expected to take.
