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Regional Reviews: Phoenix Firebringer
The plot takes us back to the dawn of civilization, where a group of prehistoric humans struggle to survive without fire. Zazzalil, a curious and rebellious member of the tribe, questions their traditional ways and inadvertently discovers how to harness fire. However, she butts heads with Jemilla, the serious new tribe leader who believes in order and caution, and their conflicting approaches creates even more uncertainty within the tribe. As the tribe deals with the consequences of this revolutionary discovery, chaos, growth and unity ensue, along with a lot of humor. Firebringer was created by the team at StarKid Productions, with music by Meredith Stepien and Mark Swiderski, and book by Nick Lang, Matt Lang, and Brian Holden. Known for their cult musical hits like A Very Potter Musical, StarKid brings the same self-aware humor and youthful exuberance to Firebringer. It's a musical that relishes being different from other musicals, with its zany approach and humorous characters. It's fun and fresh and also nice to see a fully original musical that touches upon modern topics in both serious and comical ways, even though it's set many centuries ago. Beyond the jokes, the musical explores themes of leadership, change, innovation, and the importance of questioning tradition. It manages to deliver meaningful messages about inclusion, diversity, and even climate change without ever losing its playful tone or being overly preachy. However, it stretches the fairly simple plot out to well over two hours and, while many of the songs are upbeat and engaging, several are so short it seems they're over before they've barely begun. There's also an otherworldly element that comes toward the end that is so far out of left field that it makes it seem like it was added simply to try to find a way to end the show. Fortunately, the Phoenix College cast shines with standout performances across the board. Zazzalil is portrayed by Hannah Lucile Rembert with infectious energy and a wonderful sense of curiosity and impulsiveness. Rembert's singing voice is gorgeous and excels on her many songs. As the steadfast Jemilla, Edona Bitici offers a perfect contrast to the curious Zazzalil, with a strong singing voice and a commanding presence that still allows moments of vulnerability to shine through. I look forward to seeing both women in future productions. The rest of the cast shine in numerous supporting roles, including Kimberly Isabel Larios and Mattie O'Hagan as Emberly and Grunt, making a fun and winning twosome who find they have much in common; Lacey Dixon is hilarious as the sweet and clueless Keeri; and Emma Rose Elliott is a hoot as the mysterious Chorn. Saniya Sapakie, Xavier Benjamin, Holly Elayne Mutascio, and Ryan Whitney provide many fun moments as other members of the tribe, while Elizabeth Harrison infuses Molag, the former tribe elder who fabricated lies to hold people in her command, with a playful sense of power. The cast also includes Anthony-Mark Garcia in a small supporting role and Holden Cole Fatheree who does a great job mastering the large puppets in the production. Christina Marín's direction is upbeat and dynamic, making great use of the large stage and keeping the pacing brisk while ensuring the comedy constantly shines; I laughed out loud many times due to the witty script and the cast's perfect comical delivery and expressive gestures. Also, Marín ensures the entire cast's commitment to the absurdity of their roles is strong, which makes the humor land perfectly. Cydney Trent's choreography is bright and upbeat. Creative elements include Susan Kruidenier's colorful costumes which are a fun ode to "The Flintstones" prehistoric TV show, Sydney Hagen's playful props, and a fun set design by Kristen Meiners that adds to the show's charm, transporting the audience into a whimsical prehistoric world; the addition of several stalactites that hang from underneath the two balconies where the band is situated adds to the whimsical charm of the designs. The lighting by Joseph Benesh and Richard W. Knells' sound design enhance the rock-influenced musical numbers, helping each scene pop with vivid colors. Matt McGee's puppet creations are excellent, and Emma Rose Elliott and Daniel Garcia's hair and make-up designs are fun, colorful creations. Karl Schindler's music direction derives wonderful vocals from the cast and the superb five-piece band. While it isn't perfect, Firebringer is a joyfully offbeat musical that celebrates innovation and individuality. With a sparkling and talented young cast, sharp direction, and fun creative aspects, Phoenix College's production lights up with comedy. Firebringer runs through April 27, 2025, at Phoenix College, 1202 W Thomas Road, Phoenix AZ. For tickets and information, please visit phoenixcollege.edu/theatre Director/Producer: Christina Marín Cast: |
