A true underdog of a musical just closed, and here's some reasons why this fantastic musical should have had a longer run.
1. The Music
With artists like David Bowie, Aerosmith, Cyndi Lauper, Panic! at the Disco and more, this score is full of musical genius. The songs are catchy, innovative, and different than any other score out there at the moment. With everything from scurvy pirate jigs to classic 80's hair-band rock numbers to heart-wrenching duets, this show has it all, including a tap-dancing squid and sea anemone choir! What's not to love?
2. The Set
The set is, without a doubt, the most incredible set I've ever seen. No bias here, it is just truly the most awe-inspiring set I've ever gotten to witness. Check it out for yourself; it is incredibly intricate, yet still has so many fun details that harken back to Spongebob's original fun-loving feel. From boulder-slinging mechanics to boxes arranged into a volcano, the set design is beyond phenomenal. It's no wonder at all why David Zinn won the Tony for Best Scenic Design of a musical.
Costumes
David Zinn back at it again. Transforming cartoon characters into on-stage costumes seems like an incredibly difficult task, but Zinn did an outstanding job. The costumes are understandable and fit each character perfectly; Plankton has two long braids for his two antennae, Sandy has an afro in place of her underwater helmet, Patrick still has his all-pink attire and famous patterned shorts, and Spongebob's design is ingenious as well. Don't even get me started on Squidward's synchronized legs. The ensemble pieces are some of most impressive, as each one is unique and crafted with immense care and attention to detail. Zinn's Tony nomination for Best Costume Design of a Musical is very well earned.
Fanbase
The fanbase of this musical is immense and extremely powerful. Out of the theatre, there are people creating fan art, covers of songs, cosplays, countless other forms of art dedicated to this show. And in the theatre, the fans cheered for every entrance, every dance number, every belted high note, ever reference from the original cartoon. The crowd was one the most encouraging, immersed, supportive crowds I have ever been a part of. The crowd was a spectacle within itself. The fans of this show are creative without measure, are accepting, are diverse, and are special and unique from any other fanbase.
It's Purpose
Diversity. Inclusion. Perseverance. Bravery. Optimism. All lessons that can be learned by watching "SpongeBob: the Musical." I know, not a place you'd expect to find those themes, but believe me, they're there. The show deals with prejudice against certain groups and species, like Spongebob being judged for being "just a simple sponge," and Sandy being ridiculed for being a scientist and a mammal. Very current and pressing topics are dealt with in this play, yet in an entertaining and accessible way. This show shows overcoming adversity by having the underdogs succeed; Spongebob becomes the manager of the Krusty Krab, Sandy saves the town with her science and is accepted back into Bikini Bottom, everything is right in the world once again. This show epitomizes courage, family, and so many other amazing themes that are just not seen in shows today, and it is all encapsulated in this one musical.
This show teaches us that everyone has potential, that everyone should be accepted for who they are, that every day can really be the Best Day Ever (OK, that's super sappy, but let me live, I'm emotional after this show closing).
Good news is that this show is going on tour starting in the Fall of 2019, so shameless plug for everyone to go see it if you can! You will not regret it!
