BWW Reviews: BLUE MAN GROUP Brings It: Still Big, Still Bad, Still Blue

Well known for its physical comedy and colorful music, BLUE MAN GROUP has been garnering good reviews since its inception in 1991. It's no surprise that the audience is cheering before the boys in blue even set foot on the stage. With a strong emphasis on audience participation, Blue Man Group has audience members standing, sitting, yelling, dancing, and helping out with a few acts that you'll have to see for yourself.

The production is a fun-loving combination of musical acts and physical comedy that includes complex themes like art, technology, and the nature of perception. But don't let a little dose of social commentary clog your fun filters- this show has a little something for everyone. There's enough day-glo paint and pizzazz to hold the attention of the most distractible theatergoer and charming interactions between the pseudo-human Blue Men will leave theater buffs satisfied. It's perfect for a family outing and will give you plenty to talk about over dinner with Grammy.

The most likable parts of the show come in the form of indirect interactions between the creators and the audience. Using oversized cell phone props, impromptu camera work and electronic displays, the audience receives comments and direct instructions. These tongue-in-cheek communiqués make inside jokes with those of us sitting it out on the bench as well as giving the show a relatable feel. (Side note: try not to walk in late or you might get a little more attention than you bargained for.)

On the down side some of the acts run a little bit long. Additionally, some of the video presentations are distracting because they feature Blue Man faces that are clearly from a past generation. Despite these minor setbacks, the show is memorable, zany, surprising and fun. Only those that dislike loud music or a couple butt jokes here and there need not attend.

Lucky for Minnesotans, BLUE MAN GROUP is touring for the first time. Leaving its New York home, the show is appearing at the Orpheum Theater June 15-24 Tuesday-Thursday at 7:30 p.m, Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 1 and 6:30 p.m. Tickets run from $35-$85. Theater patrons should reserve their tickets before the glow-in-the-dark paint runs dry.

 

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