By Jason and Alisha Hagey
SLAC’s Summer Show: Close Encounters in the Beehive at Salt Lake Acting Company is as hilarious as it is unmissable. When two aliens embark on a mission to Earth, they are armed with clear instructions: determine if Earth is worth saving by observing its inhabitants. The twist? They land in Salt Lake City, where the people are anything but ordinary.
Cynthia Fleming (Director/Choreographer) plunges us into the eccentric lives of the Jorgensen family through the wide-eyed, close (perhaps too close) scrutiny of intergalactic visitors. Her usual skill of biting social commentary mixed with hilarious buffoonery is especially on point. A stand-out scene where Fleming’s knack for physical comedy shines is “Everybody Cut Loose.” The three actresses are directed and choreographed perfectly, maximizing the audience’s laughter, even if you don’t know the movie Footloose. Fleming adds a layer of visual wit in every musical number, raising the entertainment to a new level.
The script excels in irony, ridicule, and humor. Olivia Custodio, David Knoell, and Penelope Caywood (Playwrights) have crafted something special with their funny, pointed dialogue and rapid-fire satire. The text is dripping with hilarity, peppered with poignant, timely jabs at current Utah culture, and leaves no subject sacrosanct. Their comedic genius lies in the seamless fusion of the intellectual with the irreverent, producing moments as thought-provoking as side-splitting.
True to form, SLAC’s Summer Show is an ensemble affair with a talented, diverse cast that tackles endless costume changes and a dizzying cavalcade of characters. Melody Baugh, Joseph Paul Branca, Noelani Brown, Nate Ginsberg, Micki Martinez, Marc Nielson, Alexa Kelly Shaheen, and Robert Scott Smith are a vibrant ensemble, radiating infectious energy and a strong camaraderie. Together, they create a buzzing hive filled with fun and excitement, making every song a joyous celebration of theatrical talent and teamwork.
Zach Hansen (Musical Director) is the life of the party. His brilliant orchestration and keen sense of farcical timing elevate every absurd note and flamboyant number into a riotous, over-the-top extravaganza.
The Lighting Design by Jesse Portillo is nothing short of dazzling. Portillo gives such playful and atmospheric nods to so many familiar Utah haunts. We are transported from the streets of Salt Lake City and beyond (even further than Spanish Fork).
Imagine being taken into a cosmic odyssey where every turn of a stage flat creates a vibrant and dynamic shift. Erik Reichert (Scenic Designer) creates this science fiction adventure all with deceptively simple means.
The seamless integration of lights and sets perfectly complements David O. Smith‘s Projection Design. Each successive projection brings undeniable enthusiasm, adding layers of visual enchantment to the performance.
Alicia Kondrick’s (Costume Design) creations for Close Encounters in the Beehive are whimsical. They bring a magical charm to the stage. Daniel Jacob Hill (Wig Designer) brings delightful fun to everything. The wig work truly shines, especially in the fantastic debate scene. Likewise, Erika Ahlin and Anna Blaes (Prop Design) skillfully integrate objects that enrich the stage with authenticity and flair, enhancing the overall experience.
SLAC’s Summer Show: Close Encounters in the Beehive delivers a summer spectacle bursting with laughter and cosmic whimsy. This riveting production transports audiences into a mesmerizing universe, promising a journey filled with charm and surprises. Every moment sparkles with humor, ensuring that theatergoers leave with smiles and cherished memories of a celestial summer night. Don’t miss this comedic adventure in the Beehive State!
The show runs about 95-minutes including the 15-minute intermission.
Salt Lake Acting Company Presents SLAC’s Summer Show: Close Encounters in the Beehive by Olivia Custodio,
David Knoell, Penelope Caywood
Salt Lake Acting Company – Upstairs Theatre – 168 West 500 North, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84103
June 26th to August 18th, 2024
We will have Tuesday performances on Tuesday, July 9th and 23rd, as well as a Saturday matinee at 2 PM on
July 6th. Shows at 1 PM and 6 PM on Sunday’s. Dark Monday’s.
Ticket Cost: $40 – $50
Box Office Phone: 801.363.7522
Box Office Email: info@saltlakeactingcompany.org
Open 11am – 5pm, Mon – Fri
Salt Lake Acting Company
SLAC Facebook Page
SLAC Instagram Page
Accessibility Information:
Sensory Performance: July 6th at 2 PM
Audio Described Performance: July 7th at 6 PM
Open Captioned Performance: July 14th at 6 PM
ASL Interpreted Performance: July 21st at 6 PM
Special Event:
Join us for THE PARTY, SLAC’s annual summer fundraiser!
Calling All Earthlings! Support SLAC and enhance your Summer Show experience! Saturday, August 3rd in the evening. Your ticket includes SLAC’s Summer Show, food and refreshments, live and silent auctions, and out of this world fun! Tickets start at $125 and are available by contacting the Ticketing Office at (801)363-7522 – all proceeds support SLAC and our programming!
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