First Date
Theater UCF in Orlando, FL
by Carl F. Gauze
Book by Austin Winsberg
Music and Lyrics by Alan Zachary and Michael Weiner
Directed by Earl D. Weaver
Musical Direction by Heather Langs
Starring Kayla Rose Ginty and Woodrow Jackson Helms
Ya gotta start somewhere, and that’s what first dates are all about. Aaron (Helms) was left at the alter and Casey (Ginty) her back up plan rescue involves her gay friend who dials in periodically to give her an escape route. Both are emotionally insecure and massive dating train wrecks, just like 99% of the couples-to-be in America. Aaron has only his inner demon to help him out; that’s a the denim-clad bad boy who looks like the Fonz but with more testosterone and angrier power chords. But But Casey ignores the flamboyant rescue calls. The lonely pair meet in a bar/restaurant/ jousting match, and there they gradually reveal themselves through hilarious little skits staffed by a large supporting cast. Aaron suffers from his guilt-spewing Jewish grandmother who comes back from the dead to keep him kosher. Casey falls back on with the always useful “No man is good enough for me, but I can recommend some of my even more messed up friends.” Its not a drama if the players don’t have to battle it out to the last goodnight kiss. Bar patrons, bad advice and neurosis appear cutest of an out standing ensemble of young actors with sharp comic timing. Even if you hate romantic musical comedies, this is the “Must See” show of the post-Covid era. It’s a good thing they don’t allow drinks in the theater, they’d just all come out your nose if your timing was even a bit off.
