EMA REVIEW: THE CRAFT’D Irresistible ★★★★★1/2

By Erik Engman

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

IG: ErikReviewsVegas

The Craft, a 1996 movie directed by Andrew Fleming, is a beloved cult classic. It is a cautionary tale of four girls who dabble in witchcraft only to find that whatever spell you send out, you “get back by three”. It’s a fun, cheesy movie with great characters and a good moral lesson. And now, just in time for Halloween, Majestic Repertory brings back their comedy version: The Craft’d: An Unauthorized Musical Parody, written and directed by Troy Heard, with musical arrangements by Brandon Scott Grayson.

As it’s a parody, this isn’t an exact copy of the movie. Sure, it has the basic characters, setting, and plot, but it also has hilarious comic dialogue and witty pop culture references. And the verdict? It was fantastic! Writer / Director Troy Heard has the amazing ability to poke fun at the characters while also respecting them, breaking them into basic archetypes while still giving them depth. Add to that some amazing songs from artists like Siouxsie and the Banshees, The Smiths, The Cure, New Order, Nine Inch Nails, Depeche Mode, and high-energy choreography by Jeffery Dubey, and you have a production that is a must-see.

It helps that they had the perfect cast. Katie Marie Jones, who played the lead Sarah, was beyond incredible. She easily carried the show, and at times, I was amazed that someone could be this good. Samantha Souza is delicious as Nancy, who slowly turns evil while also making us feel for the character. Malia Rae was mesmerizing as the racially bullied Rochelle, and lit up the stage every time she was on. And to round out the four was Jenelle Catherina as the scar-laden Bonnie, whose comic timing was impeccable. Ray Winters as Skeet, Sarah’s love interest, was suitably douchy and self-absorbed. Joey Derby (credited as The Other Guy) shines as always in all the different roles he portrayed, the father, the school buddy, the German doctor, and it’s always a delight to watch him on stage. And last, but not least, is Aurora Murphy (credited as The Other Girl), who is hilarious as the woman characters, such as Nancy’s mother, and Lirio, the owner of the occult bookshop.

Steve Paladie’s set perfectly set the scene with the band on a back platform, a mix of lockers and tarot cards on the walls, and a round pentagram platform in the front. Add to that the mighty rock ' n ' roll lighting by Marcus Randolph and Sound Design by Alan Holton, and you have the perfect witch’s brew that immerses the audience into the world of witchcraft. The costumes, designed by Gabbie Kenny, are spot on and are just cool. Special mention to the band, who made the whole thing come alive with Lin Wilson on Keyboard, Presley Michaela on Guitar, Harley Siu Swisher on Bass, and Anisa on Drums. They were amazing.

Now, I suggest you do some homework for this one. As great as it is, you won’t get half the jokes and references without having seen the original movie. Luckily, it’s available for free on Pluto TV. Overall, it seems Troy Heard has mastered the genre of the immersive nostalgic rock parody. This is every bit as good as Scream’d. The audience was loud, crazy, and deeply engrossed in the show. And that very last moment took everyone over the top. So come dressed in your “Hot Topic witchy best”, join the coven, and relive your 90s childhood. You’ll be glad you did.  It’s the perfect show for the Halloween season.

What: The Craft’d: An Unauthorized Musical Parody

When: Thursday through Saturday, 8 p.m., September 18 through November 15, with an additional 5 p.m. performance on October 31.

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

Tickets: General Admission $49.95, VIP Cabaret Seating $59.95; https://www.majesticrepertory.com/

RATING:  Irresistible ★★★★★1/2

Director: Troy Heard, Choreographer: Jeffery Dubey, Music Director: Harley Siu Swisher, Production Stage Manager: Ana Gudino, Scenic Design: Steve Paladie, Costume & Wig Design: Gabbie Kenny, Lighting Design: Marcus Randolph, Sound Design: Alan Holton