I have been excited for this to be a musical since it was a film, well before any development of this production began. So unsurprisingly, this was an absolutely delightful evening; what really worked about the production was the centering of the muses in the story, giving them plenty to do (and honestly, making them the core of the story), and shaping the entire animation-styled world around them. While Hercules and Meg were okay, and Hades squeezes every inch of humour of of the writing, this show was about the muses — and we have no issues with that.
The new songs are alright, and add some needed texture to the production — however what really doesn’t work is the book. Which is honestly unfortunate, but if we’re being honest, who expects a solid book when going to a Disney musical? it isn’t what we’re there for. What we ARE there for is Casey Nicholaw and Tanisha Scott’s stunning choreography replete with contemporary pop-culture references appropriate to the characters. Give them the awards now.
I highly recommend this production for a gleeful, mindless night out. Don’t think so hard, just smile and enjoy.