The Musical Reimagining of ‘Working Girl’: A Catchy Yet Flawed Rendition
The world premiere of the musical adaptation of the beloved 1988 film, ‘Working Girl,’ opened over the weekend at La Jolla Playhouse, bringing with it an energetic score from ’80s pop icon Cyndi Lauper. Drawing not only from her distinct pop style, but also from themes of female ambition and workplace struggles, Lauper collaborates with playwright Theresa Rebeck to create a show that has both charm and flaws.
Why the Musical Resonates Today
Set against the glitzy backdrop of 1980s Manhattan, the musical retains the essential plot elements of its film predecessor: the ambitious secretary Tess, played by Joanna “JoJo” Levesque, who aspires to claw her way up the corporate ladder. While the original film critically examined the hurdles faced by women in the workplace during that era, the musical amplifies these themes through both its storyline and Lauper's punchy pop score.
Musical Highlights amidst the Flaws
With 18 new, energetic numbers, “Working Girl” is hard to resist for fans of catchy tunes. However, the adaptation suffers from pacing issues and some songs that seem ill-fitted to narrative progression. For instance, one of the standout moments comes early in the show with “When the Penny Drops,” a number underscoring Tess's creative genius. Yet, excessive cutaways to subsidiary characters fail to intrigue and detract from the show’s central love story.
An Ensemble to Remember
The casting choices bring life to ‘Working Girl.’ Levesque, with her powerful vocals, embodies Tess with sincerity reminiscent of Lauper’s own style. Her chemistry with Anoop Desai, who portrays Jack, creates memorable moments that resonate with audiences seeking authenticity in the story's romance. The supporting cast, especially Leslie Rodriguez Kritzer as the antagonistic Katharine, adds layers of humor and ferocity, enhancing the viewing experience.
Cultural Significance and Representation
Rebeck's adaptation skillfully updates the material to reflect today's societal challenges, making it relevant for modern audiences. The show dives deep into what it means to balance ambition and personal life, shedding light on the very real frustrations that many women still face in both professional and personal spheres. With vibrant costumes and high-energy choreography celebrating female empowerment, ‘Working Girl’ invites a new generation to engage with its themes.
The Artistic Journey Ahead
This production marks a significant transition for director Christopher Ashley, who is stepping down after an impactful 18 years at La Jolla Playhouse. His vision and passion for theater are evident in every carefully crafted sequence. Although ‘Working Girl’ isn’t flawless, it presents a poignant reminder of the battles for recognition and respect women have long faced in all areas of life.
The engaging melodies and nostalgia of the ‘80s make ‘Working Girl’ an overall entertaining experience, even if it requires some editing for a smoother narrative. As this musical continues to evolve, there is potential for even more thrilling elements that could captivate audiences searching for both entertainment and meaning in today’s world.
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