Righting a wrong probably wasn't the deciding factor when the Westchester Broadway Theatre chose "The Full Monty" as its fall entry, but that's what they've accomplished at any rate. Overshadowed by the over-hyped "The Producers" in 2001, the superior in every way "Monty" had to sit on the sidelines while Mel Brooks' crass opus scooped up the Tony Awards.
Well, every show has its day, and "Monty's" has certainly arrived in Westchester's absolutely first-rate production, one of the best there "" ever. And with the theater in nearby Elmsford, N.Y., it's a great place to see this show.
Based on a popular British film, "Monty" is about a group of out-of-shape, out-of-work steel workers in Buffalo, N.Y. Long on unemployment and short on cash, they desperately come to the decision that the only way to make any money is by stripping Chippendales-style in a "ladies' night out" club.
Trouble is they can't dance, their bodies are less than toned and they have inhibitions that range from penis envy to macho modesty.
How they overcome these obstacles, become a team and get their self-esteem back (even if their clothes have to come off) is what makes "Monty" such satisfying entertainment. It's got heart, guts, pizzazz -- and plenty of bawdy jokes. Anyone looking for Chippendales bodies, however, had better sit up straight during the first few minutes when Freddie Tyson Kimmel makes a brief appearance, for after that it's love handles on parade.
Each of the guys has his own personal demons. Jerry (Peter James Zielinski) can't keep up with his child support payments to ex-wife Pam (Laurie-Beth Mraz), and may lose visitation rights with his son, Nathan, alternately played by Noah Ruff and Michael Herwitz.
Jerry's overweight buddy Dave (Tad Wilson) has a libido that sags like his waistline, though his better half, Georgie (Caroline B. Younger) seems to like him on the plump side.
Harold (Joel Briel) doesn't have the courage to tell his wife Vicki (Amy Barker) that he's been unemployed for six months.
Malcolm (Nick Gaswirth) is depressed to the point of suicide; Ethan (Brian Gligor) is simply lonely; and Noah "Horse" T. Simmons (David A. White) needs a purpose in life.
Not exactly candidates for "A Chorus Line," but their "regular guy" vulnerability is what makes them so appealing.
"Monty" scores because its perfectly balanced script and score is performed by an appealing, unselfish ensemble cast in which everyone has his moment to shine.
Zielinski does a fine job of underplaying his part, making Jerry all the more likable as the reluctant group leader. White steals as much of the show as is allowed with his "Big Black Man" number.
Director Richard Stafford has made sure the universality of the story's underdogs shines through and you'll be rooting for these reluctant show-offs from the start to the startling "full monty," or total strip, we're teased to believe will happen at the end.
Tony Award-winning playwright Terrence McNally adapted the screenplay for the stage and he's filled it with earthy humor and life affirming philosophy. For someone better known for plays with gay themes, he certainly knows how to write locker room, straight eight dialogue. There is a gay plot twist that has been transferred from the film to the stage version, but it's a minor diversion.
Broadway newcomer David Yazbek wrote the music and lyrics, and his songs are character defining and easy on the ear. From the opening "Scrap," in which the guys express their frustration at unemployment, to the flashy, hilarious finale, "Let It Go," Yazbek demonstrates the versatility of a musical comedy pro. He's written a sentimental ballad, "You Walk with Me," which is all the gay characters need to validate their relationship.
Be prepared to laugh your head off during the audition sequence when a string of no-talent, but desperate guys show up ready to bare it all and become a member of the newly dubbed dance team, "Hot Steel, " and when a crew of furniture re-possessors surprises a dress rehearsal of the scantily clad dancers.
There's plenty of flesh on view, discreet but naughty, but as to whether or not everything -- red thongs included -- are finally shed -- just a word of advice -- don't blink!
Scenic designer Steven Loftus has provided a playpen of sliding panels, and Matthew Hemesath's amusingly apt costumes suggest Buffalo without too much insult.
Music supervisor Ken Lundie and musical director John Daniels deserve praise for their smooth contributions which make "Monty" a seamless piece.
It's a tribute to all concerned that "Monty," which runs nearly 21„2 hours plus intermission, never lags, or sags like the tummies on view, for even a moment. You might want to join in at the end with the ladies of the cast in shouting "Take it off!" but I'll settle instead for "Leave it on!" -- stage, of course, so that everyone will have a chance to enjoy this thoroughly enjoyable musical -- American to the core.
"The Full Monty is playing at the Westchester Broadway Theatre, 1 Broadway Plaza, Elmsford, N.Y. (Exit 23 off the Saw Mill Parkway). It's about 45 minutes from Danbury.
Due to adult content and language, the show is recommended for mature audiences only. The schedule runs through Nov. 19, at which time the show takes a holiday hiatus and returns Dec. 28 through Jan. 20.
