BWW Reviews: Half & Half's PASSING STRANGE is a Funky, Fun Inaugural Production

There's a song titled "It's Alright" that comes up time and time again in Passing Strange, the rock musical serving as Half & Half Productions' inaugural production. The words "It's Alright" don't come close to describing this high octane show. While the content in Passing Strange may be a bit bizarre and occasionally jarring, this production is a rousing, thrilling introduction to a newer, little-known musical and to Austin's newest theater company.

While the material is tough to classify, it's certainly closer in tone to non-traditional rock musicals like Hair, and like most rock musicals, the story here involves a youth (he's even billed as "Youth" and remains nameless throughout the play) on a journey of personal and artistic self-discovery and self-expression. Thrown in are themes of teenage angst and rebellion, a smattering of existentialism, and several musings on how identity is shaped by race, national origin, and class.

Though such ideas and themes can get weighty, overly intellectual, and dry, Passing Strange remains engaging and amusing throughout due to the witty book and lyrics by Stew and the score by Stew and Heidi Rodewald. Stew's book and lyrics are often sly and self-referential, keeping the material light and fun rather than descending too far into the cerebral. The score-an intoxicating mix of rock, punk, blues, gospel, and jazz-is exuberant and quirky, and the five person band led by Musical Director/Bassist John Vander Gheynst clearly enjoys blasting the high-energy tunes.

The creative team at Half & Half truly makes the material come to life. Co-Directors M. Scott Tatum and Julianna E. Wright allow some moments to get appropriately emotional , expressive, and resonant, but overall the focus is squarely on rocking out and creating a feel-good crowd-pleaser. Brazie Adamez's choreography adds to the excitement and energy, and the environment is amusing and beautiful, particularly due to the vibrant lighting by Rush K. Evans IV.

Thankfully the incredible talent extends to the cast as well. Every member of the seven person cast is fantastic. The ensemble-featuring Robert Pellete, Jr., Chelsea Manasseri, Brian Ridley, and Leslie K. Hollingsworth-are incredibly skilled performers and comedians who can take on multiple roles with ease, though the ladies get some of the better supporting roles. As the Youth's Mother, Jacqui Cross is a delight to watch as she brings some diva flare to the stage. Karsten "Taz" Thompson plays the Narrator with a strong dose of soulful cool. But the real revelation is 18 year old Vincent Hooper as the Youth. Though he may be young, Hooper is a remarkably talented and versatile leading man capable of comedy, drama, belting rock tunes like nobody's business, and showing off some wicked dance moves. Hooper is definitely a young performer to watch.

Sure, Passing Strange isn't a typical musical. That's one of the reasons why it's so enjoyable. Every moment feels fresh and original, and the cast and crew at Half and Half Productions succeeds at introducing a daring new work to Austin audiences. While the Youth in Passing Strange may struggle to find his identity and his voice, Half and Half Productions is already there.

NOTE: Recommended for mature audiences only.

Running time: 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one 15 minute intermission.

PASSING STRANGE plays Half & Half Productions inside the Highland Mall (6001 Airport Blvd, Suite 1020, Austin, 78752) now thru May 12th. Performances are Thursday - Saturday at 8pm and Sunday at 6pm. Tickets are $10-$35. For tickets and more information, please visit http://halfandhalfproductions.org

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