Composer Jonathan Larson is most remembered for the smash hit musical Rent, but he wrote a far more introspective musical called Tick, Tick…Boom! It was initially performed as a rock monologue by Larson, and later adapted into a stage musical in 2001, five years after Larson’s unexpected death. While Rent provides commentary on the AIDS crisis and bohemian society in the 1990s, Tick, Tick…Boom! examines the inner turmoil that comes with turning 30 when your life is still in flux. The result is a phenomenal musical currently being staged in a sensational production at Bucks County Playhouse.
Tick, Tick…Boom! was a little-known property outside of inner theater circles, until it was adapted into a film starring Andrew Garfield in 2021. Since then, more people have caught on to its genius, including Bucks County Playhouse. This production, which runs through July 15, is exquisite. This wasn’t just a fun rock musical, it was grounded in the difficult journey of one man’s anxieties. In this intimate setting, you truly felt the pressure Larson experienced when turning 30 without any assurances of success or stability. The show’s most famous song, 30/90, is delivered perfectly with a rocking band (led by music director Rodney Bush) yet palpable anxiety. Another gem from this production is the number Johnny Can’t Decide, performed with emotional authenticity as Jon seeks direction.
Andy Mientus, best known for Broadway’s Spring Awakening, plays Jon. It’s a tricky role, having to portray a real person but bring your own authenticity to the universal experience. Mientus knocks it out of the park, delivering stellar vocals, incredible charm, and most importantly, an earnest fear. Mientus opens the show as Jon by describing to the audience the relentless ticking clock in his head as he approaches his 30th birthday; a major crossroads. Right away, you can feel his stress. Jon has to grapple with the desire to succeed as a composer instead of selling out and the drive to pursue his career instead of settling down with his girlfriend, all while facing the dreaded benchmark of adulthood. Mientus made this part his own, while still fully honoring Larson’s journey.
Supporting Mientus are two others to round out the cast. Krystina Alabado, best known for Mean Girls on Broadway, was spectacular as Jon’s girlfriend Susan. She too is at a crossroads, wanting to leave New York for a quieter life with her boyfriend. While the story isn’t told from her perspective, you gain a deep empathy for her struggle through Alabado’s empathetic performance. She also delivers a booming rendition of the song Come to Your Senses. Noah J. Ricketts, best known for Broadway’s Frozen, plays Jon’s best friend Michael. Ricketts brings an excellent voice, emotional heft, and a helpful reality check to his character. When it’s revealed Michael has HIV, you feel a punch to the gut from the performance. All three actors are perfect for their roles.
Tick, Tick…Boom! is one of the most authentic musicals I’ve ever seen. This production honors the authenticity by grounding the story in the relatable struggle many of us have felt trying to chase personal and professional success, all while feeling like you’re behind. The combination of thrilling music with empathetic anxiety, both performed exquisitely well, made for a brilliant production. Tick, Tick…Boom! has only recently started getting its deserved flowers and this production does a remarkable job honoring this reflective gift from Jonathan Larson.