It’s time to head out to Aurora once again to see the new production of The Full Monty, a musical that certainly puts heart, humor, and humanity on full display. With Terrence McNally’s sharp, empathetic book and David Yazbek’s jazzy but unmemorable score, this stage adaptation of the beloved 1997 British film is a great night of theatre that leaves audiences laughing and surprisingly inspired.
Set in the blue-collar rust belt, specifically, Buffalo, New York, The Full Monty tells the story of six unemployed steelworkers. Faced with irrelevance and feeling like less than men, they gain inspiration from a traveling male strip show that enthralls the women they know. It’s a desperate attempt to regain their dignity and provide for their families, but they decide to create a one-night-only male strip show to make some money and do something audacious rather than getting a job in low-level retail after their good union jobs were shut down.
Yazbek’s score is jazz-influenced and lends itself to some impressive displays of prowess from this talented cast. From some soaring falsetto highlights to incredible ensemble moments in everything from duets to quartets to quintets, there are some really interesting musical moments, but nothing that really sticks in the form of a hummable melody. You especially notice that in any song sung by a woman in the company, except for Jeanette’s Showbiz Number which remains unhummable, but is a really fun moment and impeccably performed by Liz Pazik. The songs certainly move the plot and are dynamic, but there’s nothing to latch onto. That said, each number feels earned and gives insight into the characters’ innermost desires and fears. Yazbek’s clever lyrics, paired with his diverse musical arrangements, keep the show moving at an upbeat clip and the songs do add to the lively plot especially Big-Ass Rock, Big Black Man and You Walk With Me.
What could easily have been reduced to crass humor or cheap gags is elevated by McNally’s witty, nuanced writing, which allows the characters to be flawed, relatable, and brimming with vulnerability. The humor is never forced; instead, it arises organically from the characters’ struggles and interactions, making their journey both touching and hilarious. There are great riffs on the capitalistic imperative that without work you’re not even a real person, body image, and a hilarious running gag homage to Donald O’Connor in Singin’ in the Rain.
The cast, without question, is the heart and soul of this production, led by the excellent Ben Mayne as Jerry Lukowski and the hilarious and heartwarming Jared David Michael Grant as his best friend Dave Bukatinsky. It’s impossible not to root for these everyman characters as they grapple with unemployment, body image issues, and feelings of inadequacy. The camaraderie that develops among the men is palpable, and each actor brings a distinct energy to their role, making the ensemble feel both dynamic and cohesive. The chemistry is shown in every interaction and you really believe these guys have found friendship and true camaraderie.
What’s most remarkable about The Full Monty is its ability to blend the comedic and the profound. Amidst the laughter, the show addresses serious issues—masculinity, self-worth, and the pressure to conform to societal expectations, relationship bonds of all kinds—all with an unflinching honesty that never feels heavy-handed. By the end, you’re not just cheering for these men to strip; you’re celebrating their courage to stand in their truth.
A note to anyone who intends to go to the show, there are some very bright, flashing light effects that might cause issues for the light-sensitive. So be prepared.
With superb direction, stellar performances, and a production that radiates joy and sincerity, The Full Monty is the definition of a feel-good musical. Whether you come for the laughs, the performances, or the heart, one thing is certain: you’ll have enjoyed an excellent night of theatre delivered by an immensely talented ensemble cast.
All Photos by Liz Lauren
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