Erin Lorentz and James Lane Photo by Dan Norman

In his director's note, Byrd shares his concept of this production as a "surprise cake" that Man in Chair cuts open to reveal The Drowsy Chaperone as the colorful candy inside. Scenic designer M. Curtis Grittner's design presents Man in Chair's modern apartment with an authentic modern kitchen and some musical theatre fan touches. The design allows characters and set pieces to emerge from surprising places, most playfully when Erin Lorentz as the Drowsy Chaperone appears lounging in a Murphy bed that pops out of the apartment wall. Costume designer Kathy Kohl embraces Byrd's concept with bold costume silhouettes gorgeously evoking the 1920s musicals The Drowsy Chaperone parodies.

The most successful performances are those that embrace the stylized humor demanded by the material. Keri Hommez, using a high nasal voice and blissfully blank facial expressions, is pure 1920s "dumb Dora" as would-be Follies performer Kitty. As Aldolpho, the "misguided Don Juan," whom Man in Chair tells us is a former silent film star, James Lane skillfully sells his dramatic cape flips and fully commits to his flamenco inspired number, "I Am Aldolpho." Jeremy Johnson brings vaudeville level specificity of movement, crisp articulation, and strident vocals to his role as Gangster #2.

Vocally, Lorentz shines on the delightful anthem, "As We Stumble Along," demonstrating vocal agility and a relaxed and open resonance befitting the "drowsy" (drunken) chaperone. The ensemble vocals on the energetic number "Toledo Surprise" are a standout, with their impressive range and dynamics. Molly McGuire's upper register rings out and she fully embraces the overdramatic physicality of starlet Janet Van De Graaff in her late number, "Bride's Lament."

The Drowsy Chaperone is performed in the John H. Potter Theater of The Phipps, an intimate-feeling proscenium theater enhanced by the balanced sound design by JJ Gisselquist. The biggest laughs in this comedy come from the cast's game participation as performers on Man in Chair's record, such as when the record skips or pauses. Comedy stemming from skewering the conventions of Cole Porter-style 1920s musicals is more difficult to achieve, a challenge inherent to this musical.

The Drowsy Chaperone runs through September 29, 2024, at The Phipps Center for the Arts, John H. Potter Theater, 109 Locust St., Hudson WI. For tickets and information, please visit thephipps.org or call 715-386-2305.