By Jamie Pelligrini
Tick, Tick… Boom! is a loose autobiographical musical by Jonathan Larson, the composer/writer behind Rent. The story follows the lead character Jon — largely an autobiographical stand-in for Larson — through his anxiety and doubt about his career path, relationship, and approaching 30th birthday.
Triune Entertainment’s production is directed by Ryan Balent, who has done an amazing job with not only casting the talent but creating a well-tuned, nine-person (traditionally three) version of this musical, which allows the principals to fully focus on the lead roles and incorporate several fresh voices and talent to the many ensemble roles. Music director Cate Murray has created a wonderful blend of harmonies in the ensemble numbers that can only be achieved with this larger cast. Gabrielle Tessier has choreographed a splendid show with “Sunday” and “Sugar” being standout routines.
The show stars Jake Fleming, giving a strong performance as Jonathan. His seamless transitions between breaking the fourth wall and returning to the scene allow us to see the anxiety and struggles the character was dealing with as he debated whether he should “sell out” and leave New York City. His strong baritone paired wonderfully with the other performers. Abby Rozmajzl played Susan, Jonathan’s girlfriend, and was a powerhouse onstage. With both acting and amazing vocals in all her songs, it is a shame to single out just one, but “Come to Your Senses” really hit the right note in terms of performance and characterization. The song “Therapy,” sung by Jake and Abby, was a true show-stopping moment.
Marty Kelly as Michael, Jonathan’s best friend, was a touching and real portrayal of a man who is doing the best he can to support his friend while burdened by the knowledge of his own terminal illness. The duet “No More” between Marty’s and Jake’s characters was both rebellious and playful. The entire ensemble provided the show with the energy the dance numbers demanded, and the diverse characterization the show thrived on. Lianne Aarons, Joseph Allen, Lucia Mattson, Noah Sarinana, Lily VanBrocklin, and Elizabeth Steimel all performed critical roles and should be very proud.
The technical aspects of the show were solid, from the lights (Jack Tessier), costumes (Kyna Chilcot), set design (Morgan Gallagher), and stage crew and managers, with a special nod to the sound design (Sean Salas) and the band members of “Uncle Drew and the Scoundrels,” led by orchestra director Lori Roddy. Rarely does a show not struggle with sound/mic issues, but the team that Triune Entertainment has put together is outstanding.
Triune Entertainment has been consistently staging quality shows for the past four years, with a focus on “creating exceptional entertainment experiences while being respectful to its audience and participants, and to provide opportunity and access to the best in live production.” The founders Matt and Lisa Moore and Cate Murray continued to elevate the theater culture in Warrenton, Virginia, and the greater Washington, DC, area.
Tick, Tick… Boom! Plays through June 28, 2026, presented by Triune Entertainment LLC. performing at The Back Lot Theater @ Allegro, 92 Main Street, Suite 002, Warrenton, VA. Purchase tickets online.
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‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source dctheaterarts.org ’
