Theater Review: A Commercial Jingle For Regina Comet Is A Blast
We have all heard of the “has-been” and how the music industry has a way of making icons living legends so as to happily show them the door. In essence, thank you for what you gave, but I do not need you anymore; I will simply replay your hits from when you were younger-looking. It is a devastating blow for some artists, but for Regina Comet and her honorary Physics Degree, it is a barrier she will climb with the help of two “no-name” jingle-makers. Playing until November 14 at the DR2 theater, located on 101 E 15th St, New York, NY 10003, A Commercial Jingle For Regina Comet is the quick burst of fun you need for your day!
Bryonha Marie Parham is amazing as Regina Comet. She feels like a legend, and smiles her way through the hints of tragedy that made Regina feel like a passenger in the ride of her Life. After all, the only person that ever asked her what she thought was her fellow, third grade classmate, Amir. Instead, from her team to her parents, Regina was told how to be a star, and, when her light got dimmed, no one told her how to brighten again. In essence, what happens when artists makes it “big” but their “bigness” is given a time-stamp. This is a question that, though talented and beloved in the Jewish Summer Camp Musical circuit, Man 2 (Ben Fankhauser) and Man 1 (Alex Wyse), cannot ask. Why? Because they have NO success, despite, in real life, being the composer and lyricist of A Commercial Jingle For Regina Comet.
Part of the Zellennial dilemma, is that we have realized there is no economic stability available whether you get a “stable job” or go for your dreams. Hence, if you cannot get the money, at least, work in what you love? For Fankhauser’s Man 2 and Wyse’s Man 1, this is true, and the latter two actors totally embody the cool neediness of being grown, theaterheads. They live for the dance between music and words, and see Regina Comet as their doorway to making a living. Yet, the prospect of fame and love cracks the duo’s loyalty to reveal even the potential of success can break a friendship.
Playing at DR2 until November 14, A Commercial Jingle for Regina Comet is SO WORTH SEEING! Directed Marshall Pailet, this 80 minute musical was bright, I saw it at night but walked out light day. It was positively delightful and funny in way that felt banal and sweet in it core message: whether you rose to the top or are still rising, do not forget who you are because that is the first thing people will try to erase. Yet, YOU are the star, then they cannot touch you! Click Here To Buy Tickets
