EMA Review: SHOWGIRLS: AN UNAUTHORIZED MUSICAL PARODY Delicious ★★★★★

By Erik Engman

Author, Clown and Improvisation Teacher, Theatre Critic EatMoreArtVegas.com

IG: ErikReviewsVegas

Very few films have the notoriety of Showgirls, a 1995 NC-17 movie directed by Paul Verhoeven and written by Joe Eszterhas. It’s considered one of the worst films of the 20th Century, filled with extreme overacting, laughable dialogue, gratuitous nudity, and almost no likable characters. And… I love it. It’s the definition of “it’s so bad, it’s good.”

So I was excited when Majestic Repertory announced it was producing Showgirls: An Unauthorized Musical Parody (Book and Lyrics by Troy Heard, Music by James Edwards), and I’m happy to say it surpassed my expectations. Writer / Director Troy Heard once again brings us parody at its finest. Like Scream’d and The Crafted, he doesn’t just make fun of the film, but embraces the story with care and love, flaws and all. He knows exactly what parts to present and just how much to push them over the top. The actors are all the cream of the crop. The songs, with lyrics by Heard and music by Edwards, capture the spirit of the 90s with an energetic gusto.

The simple setting (design credited to You Killed Me First), with a big “Welcome to Vegas” sign on the center floor and a large open stage topped with a neon Showgirls sign, warmly welcomes the audience, supported by the flashy lighting (designed by Marcis Randolph) mixed with the sound (designed by Aldair Callejas). You’re transported into this madcap world of soap opera treachery.

Elaine Hayhurst as Nomi is perfect as the overly hostile, chip-eating protagonist, playing into the angst with an appropriate bitchy attitude. Her nemesis, Cristal, the toxic megastar, played by Kady Heard, brings a fun bitchiness of her own, which makes the battle of wits (battle of tits?) a delight to behold. Markeis Simon excels as both the best friend, Molly, and, conversely, the philandering dancer James. Jeffery DuBey was hilarious as the emo-haired Zack. His infamous pool sex scene was one of the funniest things I’ve ever seen. Erik Amblad, who plays both the gruff Tony and the vivacious Mama, is excellent and consistently delivers powerful performances. Steffan Scrogan as the sleazy Al and the sexual harasser Andrew Carver is perfectly gross, smooth, and smarmy. Andrew Young brings strong energy as the dance captain, Marty; his “Thrust!” song is a highlight of the show. And finally, Gelline Guevarra as Dina and Kalila Webster as Penny tirelessly bring extra life to the stage. 

Now, as with any of these parodies, I strongly suggest watching the original movie first. The action moves so fast and furiously that without familiarity with the original story, you might get lost. And if I had a nitpick with the show, it’s that I wanted more of the original plot, as certain parts seemed to be either shortened or skipped outright. I hope it’s easy to follow for those going into this blind.

For those of you wondering about the NC-17 aspect, without giving anything away, I will say this show is extremely clever in its execution, and you won’t have to worry about the more triggering aspects like the sexual violence or the pointless nudity. I think you’ll actually be impressed with what this show does instead. I was. So buy some bags of chips, dress in your best Versayce clothing, and thrust your way over to Majestic Repertory. This is a show not to be missed!

What: Showgirls: An Unauthorized Musical Parody  

When: January 15 to March 8; Thursdays through Sundays at 7 p.m.

Where: Majestic Repertory Theatre, 1217 S Main St., Las Vegas, NV 89104

Tickets (including fees): General Admission: $52.70; VIP Splash Zone: $ 63.20.

majesticrepertory.com

RATING: Delicious ★★★★★

Director: Troy Heard; Choreographer: Sarah Lowe; Choral Director: Jason Manlapaz; Scenic Design: You Killed Me First; Costume Coordination: Gabbie Kenny; Lighting Design: Marcus Randolph; Sound Design: Aldair Callejas.