THE HANGOVER REPORT – Ma-Yi’s new musical FELIX STARRO fails to capitalize on its compelling premise

Nacho Tambunting, Francisca Muñoz, and Alan Ariano in Ma-Yi Theater Company's production of "Felix Starro" at Theatre Row. Photo by Richard Termine.

Nacho Tambunting, Francisca Muñoz, and Alan Ariano in Ma-Yi Theater Company’s production of “Felix Starro” at Theatre Row. Photo by Richard Termine.

This week at Off-Broadway’s Theatre Row, I caught Ma-Yi Theater Company’s world premiere musical Felix Starro. The musical – which features music by Fabian Obispo and book and lyrics by Jessica Haggedorn – marks the commencement of the fine Asian American-oriented theater company’s 30th anniversary season. Set in San Francisco, Felix Starro tells the story of an aging Filipino faith healer and his grandson (both are named Felix Starro), both of whom embark on a scrappy pursuit to earn enough money to return to and live a comfortable life back in the homeland.

Ma-Yi has been on a winning streak as of late. Its productions of The Chinese Lady, KPOP and Teenage Dick have been among the most fascinating works by Asian American theater makers I’ve come across in recent years. Unfortunately, Felix Starro falls short of its lofty aspirations. On a positive note, the story it tells is undeniably compelling, exploring such important themes as family and immigration (particularly the personal circumstances of illegal immigration), vis-à-vis identity. But alas, the show’s generic music – with shades of a hodgepodge of various more accomplished musical theater scores – and mostly banal lyrics are clearly the output of developing writers. Indeed, their work unfortunately fails to make much of an impact. Luckily, Ms. Haggedorn’s book is competent enough to move the narrative along efficiently.

Ralph B. Peña’s direction is also commendable; it’s at once simple yet visually striking. The cast of seven is a hardworking bunch, even if the individual performances are uneven. The older performers fare better, especially Alan Ariano in the leading role of older Felix Starro and Ching Valdes-Aran as a broker of fake identities (in addition to a number of other characters). Less successful are the younger thespians, whose acting – despite some great singing voices – could use a bit more depth and seasoning. But given Felix Starro’s important and relevant message(s), I would still be hard pressed not to recommend a viewing, especially if you are personally living or interested in the Filipino-American experience.

SOMEWHAT RECOMMENDED

 

FELIX STARRO
Off-Broadway, Musical
Ma-Yi Theater Company / Theatre Row
1 hour, 50 minutes (without an intermission)
Through September 21

Categories: Off-Broadway, Theater

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