Marblehead Little Theatre's 'Something Rotten': A Shakespearean Musical Comedy

It’s time to make an omelette no one will forget.

Marblehead Little Theatre whips up a heaping rendition of Something Rotten. Set in the Renaissance era, brothers Nick and Nigel Bottom argue about ideas for a new show. They must think outside the eggshells if they’re going to surpass the notorious playwright, William Shakespeare.

I have seen Something Rotten twice now and it has become one of my new favorite shows. It’s a unique show that likes to do its own thing. The cast of MLT’s Something Rotten achieves comical brilliance, superb musical talents, and reminds audiences never to be afraid to be ourselves, especially when creating new projects.

Nick Raponi is outstanding as Nick Bottom. He infuses impeccable comedic timing and excellent emotional depth. Desperate to create the best show ever, Nick learns to be more open to ideas, especially about musicals. You need to be creative and give every idea a chance.

Bea (Rachel Pride) and Portia (Alicia Tentido) provide a much-needed representation of strong female characters. Bea’s tenacious energy is motivating, along with her catchy song, ‘Right Hand Man.’ Nigel Bottom (Johnathan Pappas) and Portia’s scenes were sweet, encouraging Portia to take a stand against her Puritan father (John Macero).

The audience was in stitches whenever Stephen Flaherty entered the stage as Nostradamus. I cackled as he gazed wide-eyed into the future, reciting impending prospects. Flaherty’s comedic timing, especially his exaggerated expressions was highly achieved.

I saw Something Rotten for the first time at Endicott College in April this past spring. Playing Nick Bottom in that show, Eamon Arthur takes on the role of the flamboyant William Shakespeare here. Arthur’s versatile performance is fantastic, playing the perfect foil to the Bottom brothers.

The cast’s vibrant energy filled the space as everyone had the time of their life. As I have said, no small part exists in the theater. Every part is important, no matter how small the role is. The cast accomplishes clever dynamics as an ensemble.

Taking audiences back to the Renaissance, theater is never put on its feet alone. Sets and backgrounds were created to depict houses or streets. The costumes were exceptional. At one point cast members dance in eggs and omelette costumes!

Let’s not forget about the songs. This is a musical after all. Songs are so much fun in Something Rotten. Learn more about Nick’s distaste for Shakespeare in ‘God, I Hate Shakespeare.’ Discover what theater is all about in the dance-hopping number, ‘A Musical.’ More songs include ‘Will Power,’ ‘It’s Eggs,’ and ‘Make an Omelette.’

I am surprised that the cast didn’t break out into laughter themselves. Something Rotten is the funniest show ever! The cast put their creative juices together, being as silly and over-the-top as they could. Whether it was intentional, one actor had a battle with an out-turned coat sleeve and made it part of the scene.

‘To thine own self be true,’ remarks director Katie Meuse. She encouraged the cast to embrace the silliness. The moral of Something Rotten establishes that we should not be afraid to be ourselves. Don’t be jealous of others work. Create an omelette nobody has made.

Audience reaction is my favorite part of theater. Barely anybody could contain their laughter, erupting in applause after each number. This show reminds us to have a laugh and be ourselves.

Something Rotten is a must-see production at Marblehead Little Theatre. It’s a perfect blend of humor, heart, and eggs. Buy a ticket and see this hilarious and energetic production. It plays until June 30th.