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Parodying a cultural behemoth like Titanic is no small feat, but Titanique, now playing Off-Broadway at the Daryl Roth Theatre, pulls it off with wild abandon and impressive precision. This musical spoof mixes the plot of the beloved film with the music of Céline Dion, resulting in a show that feels equal parts absurd spectacle and tightly crafted comic gold.
What truly sets Titanique apart is its use of comedic timing and improvisation. The script is solid, but the magic happens in the moments when the actors break out of it. This is not a show afraid to react to its audience or to the world outside its doors. Each night feels different, thanks to a cast that is as quick on their feet as they are strong in their vocals. The humor lands fast and hard, with a rhythm that would make a seasoned stand-up proud. It feels fresh, unpredictable, and alive.
Leading the charge is Amber Ardolino, who plays Céline Dion as a kind of celestial diva dropped into the Titanic story to explain what really happened. Her performance is commanding, hilarious, and vocally stunning. Mindelle’s comedic instincts are impeccable, and her presence gives the show its unhinged but focused core. She does not just spoof Dion—she channels her, then turns her into something mythic.
The rest of the cast is equally strong. Max Jenkins plays Jack with a delightful mix of deadpan sincerity and comic timing. His straight-man energy keeps the chaos grounded. As Rose, Cassadee Pope brings vocal power and a knack for pushing punchlines to the edge without going too far. Both performers manage to maintain genuine chemistry while also leaning fully into the show’s campy energy.
Barnaby Reiter understudied as Ruth and was perfection. Kyle Ramar Freeman gave perfect comedic timing and performances over and over.
Director Tye Blue keeps the production moving at a brisk pace, allowing space for improv while maintaining structure. The show knows when to let a moment breathe and when to punch it up. There is a looseness that feels intentional rather than messy, a testament to how well-rehearsed and in-sync the company is.
In the end, Titanique is not just a parody. It is a loving, ridiculous celebration of two pop culture icons: the film Titanic and the music of Céline Dion. With a wildly talented cast, whip-smart improv, and spot-on comedic timing, it earns every laugh and then some. It is not only seaworthy—it soars.
I bought a magnet.
