UIndy Theatre’s production of Jonathan Larson’s “Tick, Tick…Boom!” captures the uncertainty and dread of getting older in a lively performance.
“Tick, Tick…Boom!” follows Jon, an artist struggling to make ends meet in New York City, as he hopes to find some success as a songwriter writing musicals. While Jon’s friends have stable jobs, Jon continues to struggle to get an audience for his art and is dreading the moment he turns thirty without finding success.
This feeling of dread was depicted so well that I felt it myself. The way the musical numbers, especially “30/90,” intensified as it went on really showcased the pressures that come with getting older.
I also felt that the multi-colored lights and the simple set helped bring the show to life. Most changes in the setting were done by actors moving tables and chairs onto the stage in choreographed movements that often went along with songs, which made the changes feel more fluid and part of the show.
Throughout the show, I loved how all actors, ensemble or not, had important parts within Jon’s story. Oftentimes, many of the actors had different parts and duties throughout the show, such as portraying background dancers, Jon’s parents, co-workers, friends or audience members. Because of their different roles in the show, I felt like I could see all their talents as actors and how involved they were during the performance.
Additionally, I noticed how the lead actors played their characters with such emotional depth. In particular, senior theatre major Zacy Schneider’s performance as Jon in the song “Why” stood out. The song was soft and contemplative, with Jon reflecting on what he enjoys most about his life and his memories with his friend Michael. Despite the slowness of the song, Schneider’s emotional performance made the song feel like the intense turning point that it was, where Jon is realizing that he wants to spend his life making art despite the struggles and failures he has faced. UIndy’s “Tick, Tick…Boom!” was emotional, well-choreographed and showcased the talent of UIndy Theatre Co.
