“Scripted” may not be the right word. According to director Eric B. Armstrong, “almost all of it is improvised,” but the only cast members allowed to improvise onstage are the actual members of Laughing Stock. Others have to get permission before changing a line.
While it’s definitely a family-friendly show, the pop-culture references are very Gen-X. So, it’s kind of an odd duck, like children’s theater for adults. Dead-souled hipster poseurs won’t like it. The humor is obvious and squeaky-clean, like a Mel Brooks-y vaudeville revival without a hint of burlesque.
But, once I forgot to be hip, I laughed my ass off. When the show works—which is most of the time—it’s very funny. It’s innocent and earnest, but who needs to be edgy and cynical all the time?
No clue why Robyn’s name is spelled that way, but who cares? It’s a fun production, and if there’s a ray of sunshine left in your heart of darkness, you will be entertained.
Robyn Hood: Boyz in the Hood @ Off Broadway Theatre, 272 S. Main, 801-355-4628, Monday, Friday & Saturdays, through July 10, 7:30 p.m., $8-$16. LaughingStock.us