There are a lot of offbeat musicals around these days, from Spider-Man to Evil Dead. Well now the Steve Allen Theater is showing a production of a musical version of Re-Animator. The original film came out in 1985 . It was directed by Stuart Gordon and stared Jeffery Combs. It has since become one of the most well known b-movies of the 1980's. Which if you couldn't guess is a musical version of the film of the same name, which is based on a story from H.P. Lovecraft. It's produced by Brian Yuzna, and director by the same man who directed the original STUART GORDON!
The musical starts out with an opening that is almost the exact same as the original, and introduces us to Herbert West, a young scientist who has apparently found the cure for death. Graham Skipper brings the role of West to the stage, and he does a great job at filling the shoes of Jeffery Combs as a very driven yet very odd young man. We are then introduced to Dan, a student trying to become a doctor who just can't seem to accept the death of a patient. He is also involved with Megan, the Dean's daughter. She is sweet, and dreams of having the perfect wedding with Dan.
So let me start off by saying I freaking loved the musical as a fan of the original movie. Now in a world of remakes a musical can actually be a worthwile retelling of a story we've known for decades. The story of the musical and movie are as identical as they could be. From start to finish this musical is fun and entertaining. The songs are quirky and offbeat much like the original film
The film's story is translated perfectly into a musical adaptation. With catchy songs, and a cast who does the original cast justice (although no one can replace Jeffery Combs), the musical fits together perfectly.
Sadly the show only runs from the March 5th to the 27th. So go see it before it's gone!
George Wendt - Dean Halsey
Marion Grace - Mace
Jesse Merlin - Dr. Hill
Brian Gillespie - Chorus
Mark Beltzman - Dr. Gruber/Corpse
Graham Skipper - Herbert West
Cynthia Carle - Dr. Harrod
Liesel Hanson - Nurse/Chorus
Chris L. McKenna - Dan Cain
Racheal Avery - Megan Hasley
The Steve Allen Theater
4773 Hollywood Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90027-5333
(323) 666-4268
General Admission $25.00
March 5th - 27th
