Jonathan Larson’s Tick, Tick… BOOM! is an autobiographical rock musical that explores the anxiety of turning 30 while pursuing creative passions. Though Larson is best known for Rent, this earlier work offers an introspective glimpse into his struggles as an aspiring composer.

The Chance Theater’s production of Tick, Tick… BOOM! is a decent rendering of the show. However, the story falls short of being truly enjoyable. The material carries an inherent relatability—touching on themes of artistic ambition, personal sacrifice, and self-doubt—but it lacks the overwhelming emotional or theatrical impact that makes a musical unforgettable. The production is solid but never quite soars.

One of the core challenges is the music. Larson’s compositions are competent, but most of the standouts grab attention with comedic lyrics or witty scenarios. The melodies, while engaging, do not leave a lasting impression.

Luc Clopton and Mario Houle in “Tick, Tick… Boom!” at Chance Theater. Playing January 24 – February 23, 2025 at the Bette Aitken theater arts Center on the Cripe Stage. Photos by Doug Catiller

The performances are commendable, with the cast delivering a sincere portrayal of Larson’s struggles. The set design was a highlight. Spread across the stage was a well-crafted depiction of various parts of New York City. A balcony, an apartment, offices, and a restaurant were seamlessly integrated into the space. Props easily transformed an apartment into an office, then a cafe, and back again, allowing for a fluid and immersive experience. The singing was strong, and the costumes were perfectly suitable for the time period. There was no reason to doubt that people in 1990 would dress as they did in this production, so in that regard—success.

Luc Clopton stars as Jon, Lena Cejas as Susan, and Mario Houle as Michael. The story is told from the perspective of Jon, a writer and composer struggling to find success. He and his girlfriend Susan are on different life trajectories, and his friend Michael has seemingly given up his passions for a life of financial leisure—at least leisurely enough to procure multiple belts. The idea of struggling to earn validation, success, and meaning is incredibly relatable. However, for the purposes of this story, it might actually be—and hear me out—too relatable. Jon suffers from anxiety, constantly hearing the ‘tick, tick, boom’ of his approaching 30th birthday and the suffering of someone he loves.

While the sentiment behind feeling like whatever you are not is not being done fast enough or well enough is absolutely understandable in both yesterday’s and today’s world, it is also so universal that it almost borders on cliché. The relatability, rather than adding depth, somewhat flattens the impact. Furthermore, Jon is the focal point of the entire story. While Susan and Michael are important to him, we only relate to them through his perspective. His creative career is his top priority, which makes the emotional connection to the other characters a bit too tenuous to make me truly care. Unfortunately, Jon, as a character, is not interesting enough to be considered exciting.

Lena Ceja in “Tick, Tick… Boom!” at Chance Theater. Playing January 24 – February 23, 2025 at the Bette Aitken theater arts Center on the Cripe Stage. Photos by Doug Catiller

Overall, the Chance Theater’s production of Tick, Tick… BOOM! is competent and relatable but lacks the spark that elevates a musical from good to great. It is an admirable effort that may resonate with those who appreciate Larson’s work or relate to the struggles of an artist, but it does not stand out as an unforgettable theatrical experience.

Review

8.4 Overall

0 Users (0 votes)

Story7.8

Acting8.8

Set & Design9

Costumes8.5

Entertainment8

What people say... 0 Leave your rating

Be the first to leave a rating.

Leave your rating

• Story
• Acting
• Set & Design
• Costumes
• Entertainment

Very Good Show! OCR Recommended! 

January 24 — February 23, 2025.