By JENNIKA INGRAM | Reporter
Theatre Palisades has taken on “Ruthless! The Musical”—a humorous spoof on big musicals, featuring all-female characters.
The story is about 8-year-old Tina Denmark, starring Benni Ruby, who knows she was born to play Pippi Longstocking and will do “anything” to win her part in the school musical, even if it means “murdering off the leading lady.”
“It was a dream role of mine,” said the 14-year-old Ruby to the Palisadian-Post, shadowing the play’s sentiment in her first Theatre Palisades production.
Ruby’s performance, costume changes and enthusiasm were contagious. The audience reactions for the performances were lively and laughter could be heard during all the witty lines, with the story-line getting stronger in the second act.
“It was amazing, it was so funny,” said audience member Sydney Malakeh.
“I thought it was great, just super,” added Keicia Golay, who grew up in the Palisades.
Jon Sparks as Tina’s agent Sylvia La Croix brings in the Broadway with a vibrant musical performance and an endless variety of expressions to hold our attention, while Jessica D. Stone showed talent, navigating the role of the untalented Louise and powering through as the unappreciated Eve.
Alta Abbot is directing, with Greg Abbott as assistant director. The producers are Martha Hunter and Sherman Wayne, along with musical director Brian Murphy. Music is by Marvin Laird, with the book and lyrics by Joel Paley.
The trio of musicians playing behind the scenes (pianist Murphy), bass player (Spencer Hutton) and drummer (John Harvery) were exceptional. The production was said to have added a bassline that wasn’t in the original score, which premiered off-Broadway in 1992.
Other cast members include Carly Reeves as Myrna Thorn, Randi Cee as Lita Encore and Jenna Nicole Sullivan as Judy Denmark/Ginger Delmarco—with a special appearance from Tallulah Hunter, the dog.
Nicole Sullivan gave a mesmerizing and flawless performance, displaying her range and star power in the lead role. Reeves continues the strong performances, adding adept physical comedy and captivating as Ms. Thorn. Her costume was a riot as well.
Cee joined the production as a last-minute replacement, joining on board just 10 days before with five days of rehearsal—and she nailed it.
The talented jazz vocalist revealed to the Post she hadn’t performed live theater in a decade or been in a musical for 15 years. She even added her own wardrobe, a delightful Ralph Lauren dress.
The show drew a crowd from outside of the Palisades for the Sunday matinee performance, with people driving to see the show from as far as San Diego.
“I think this theater is a hidden gem,” said San Diego out-of-towner Debbie Berg. “The production value is so high.”
Set and lighting design by Wayne added to the twists and turns of the production. Excellent sound design was crafted by Susan Stangle, with Stage Manager Josh Harper and Choreographer Victoria Miller orchestrating a seamless production.
Performances, which take place Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m., will continue through December 8.
For tickets and more information, call 310-454-1970 or visit theatrepalisades.org.
This page is available to subscribers. Click here to sign in or get access.
