You don’t need to be a fan of the FOX TV series “Glee” to catch the fun of “Gleenoir Year,” playing at the Arts Asylum as part of KC Fringe Festival. The cast of twenty-one takes a humorous journey reflecting on its senior year from the vantage of its 10-year class reunion. Friendships, romances, and rivalries resurface, and previously unspoken thoughts and emotions are aired. Of course, because the show is a satirical send-up on “Glee,” musical competition serves as the plot’s centerpiece.
The show is a nonstop joyride driven by an energetic cast that rarely drops out of high gear. Musical numbers ranging from Santana to Stephen Sondheim to Taylor Swift move the audience to tap their toes, clap and sing along. A Michael Jackson medley delivered by one of two rival teams at regionals stands out.
Obvious affection for the original series carries the show when the plot and number of characters becomes confusing. Familiar tropes, character types, and popular songs spirit the audience on a joyful, loving trip. Long-time fans will undoubtedly pick up on the “Glee” insider jokes, but everyone who enjoys pop music, reminiscing about high school, or revisiting a favorite TV series from ten years ago will find “Gleenior Year” irresistible.
“Gleenior Year: The Final Satirical Stage Adaptation of the Hit FOX TV Show ‘Glee’” is produced by Faust Theatre and the Arts Asylum. Additional performances are Wednesday, July 23 at 7:00 p.m.; Friday, July 25 at 8:30 p.m.; and Saturday, July 26 at 4:00 p.m. Tickets are available online anytime at KCFringe.org or at the Arts Asylum box office 30 minutes before show times.
