Producing an original musical for Fringe is a monumental feat, especially with an entirely new story and score. Playwright Tim Racer and director Heather Tinker should be commended for this achievement, especially given the relatively large and talented cast. With producing assistance from Summit Theatre Group, their new musical, “Problematic Man”, isn’t entirely a homerun, but an admirable and entertaining effort.
The plot revolves around Terry Simmons, a professional baseball player at the top of his game with a deep, dark secret in his past. Actor John Carver delivers a solid performance capturing the arrogant insouciance of this “problematic man” with an exceptional tenor voice. The heroine, Jo Whitlock, is a sports reporter with a secret dream of her own. RebeccaSue Wiles gives an equally strong performance, especially when displaying her impressive mezzo singing. Given the musical theatre genre, these two naturally have a forbidden love for each other, which will be resolved through song by the end of the act. One can’t help but make comparisons between Joe Hardy and Gloria Thorpe in Damn Yankees, the OG baseball musical.
Much of the pop/rock score is enjoyable although the orchestra tracks are heavily synthesized. The lyrics utilize clever rhymes even when melodies feel a bit overly simplistic and repetitive. Clearly, they were striving for a golden-age feel to this musical despite a more contemporary score. The characters are one-dimensional and most serve to support the lead’s main story. When the “problematic situation” is finally revealed it is explained away a little too easily for what seemed to be the main conflict.
Overall, the show has the youthful energy and optimism of a school musical. The modular set pieces are inventive and keep the pace tight. Most of the blocking is “park and bark” and a choreographer may have enlivened the production. Even though the plot is uncomplicated, the show is well-rehearsed with some enjoyable numbers (including an homage to hotdogs and beer) and some lovely moments of harmony and fine performances.
