Theatre Tallahassee's 'Tick, Tick, BOOM!' is the story millennials need

Most theater buffs will recognize composer Jonathan Larson for the massive cultural phenomenon that is "Rent," but fewer folks (including myself, before this review) have experienced the joy and catharsis of Larson’s 1991 work, "Tick, Tick, BOOM!"

This semi-autobiographical story, mostly told from Larson’s own perspective as ‘Jon,’ follows the 29-year-old in the week leading up to his 30th birthday as well as the workshop performance of his new musical, "Superbia." This glimpse into Jon’s "pre midlife crisis" touches on some of the grittier themes of the 1990s, as well as the complex feelings of growing older, wondering what to make of the rest of your life.

Jon lives with his best childhood friend, Mike, a gay man and former actor-turned Market Research businessman, and spends a lot of time with his girlfriend, Susan, a dancer who’s given up the competition and criticism of professional performing and longs for a family and house by the ocean.

Everything seems hinged on Jon’s musical workshop, and over the course of a week, the friends maneuver feelings of doubt, grief, lust, hopelessness, and inversely, hopefulness. The show is a short runner, and features many nods to Jon’s favorite composer, Stephen Sondheim — I encourage readers to listen for all the hidden references!

The story progresses like entries in Jon’s journal, beginning in his apartment with Mike and Susan where they express the stress and excitement of turning 30 in the 1990s (30/90), and after Mike leaves for bed, Jon and Susan exit to the roof for a smoke break and conversations about the future — potentially moving somewhere without the hustle and bustle of New York City.

Susan says, “I AM a dancer, and I’ll still be a dancer in New England, only there I will have a dishwasher.” Jon isn’t so sure of this prospect - who gets famous in New England?!

Jon works his diner job to the normal customer complaints (Sunday), takes a ride with Mike to see his fancy new apartment (No More) and struggles with managing his changing relationship with Susan (Therapy). He struggles to earn the respect of his family and his agent, forms a special connection with the lead starlet of his show (Sugar), reevaluates how important his friendship with Mike really is (Why), and receives the best birthday gift of his entire 30 years in the final moments of the show (Louder Than Words).

The small cast really packs a punch, with three actors playing the entire ensemble, and each performer brings such a unique expression and interpretation to their character(s). I have had the pleasure of knowing Conner Fabrega (Jon) since he was just a funny little kid at summer camp, and now in my own 30th year, I have the privilege of watching him, all grown-up, take on a dark, emotional, and challenging role.

Mike is played by Tyler Jones and Billy Lister, both creating great caricatures of a young 1990s businessman — Jones is stylish and cool as a cucumber, while Lister is bombastic and a bit more jagged around the edges, but both look at their friend Jon with the same love and care in their eyes as an old friend should have for their best pal.

Elyssa Brooks and Kate McDermott are like the Sun and Moon of Susan — they embrace their unique sensualities in "Green, Green Dress," as well as their own alter-egos to Susan’s foil — Keressa, the lead in Jon’s Superbia.

Each character, in their own way, shows the commitment to their own life paths, regardless of the hardships involved: Jon dreams to produce a great show on Broadway, Mike longs to enjoy the finer and fuller things in life, and Susan wants to dance for herself and her family rather than the directors of NYC.

I implore folks of all ages to attend a performance — most adults will see reflections of their own thoughts and feelings from that time and realize that they are universal — you were not, and still are not, alone! Young people will see a heart-warming reminder that 30 is just that - 30. Just a number, just one year, in the grand adventure of life.

If you go

What: "Tick, Tick, BOOM"

When: 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, 8 p.m. Fridays. Note: Most shows are sold-out

Where: Theatre Tallahassee, 1861 Thomasville Road

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: 'Tick, Tick, BOOM!' is the story millennials need | Theatre review