Theatre Three's "The Prom" has a Whole Lot of "Zazz!"

"It's ground-breaking, earth-shaking, life-affirming, breath-taking, gut-wrenching heart-aching, in two words, it's history-making…" These lyrics from "Changing Lives," the opening number of the musical "The Prom," could well describe Theatre Three's first production of its 53rd mainstage season.

With music by Matthew Sklar, book and lyrics by Chad Beguelin, and book by Bob Martin, "The Prom" was the 2019 winner of the prestigious Drama Desk Award for Best Musical. This spectacular show is bursting with heart, soul, and relevant messages for today's audiences, such as we all need to accept each other, love thy neighbor, and be true to ourselves.

"The Prom" features two eccentric, self-absorbed actors, Dee Dee Allen and Barry Glickman. Their Broadway show "Eleanor! The Eleanor Roosevelt Story" closes on opening night due to a disparaging theatrical review calling them out on their narcissism. Their publicist, desperate to get them back in the good graces of their fan base, suggests they become involved in a cause célèbre. Two other disgruntled actors, Trent Oliver and Angie Dickinson, join them in coming up with a plan to help an Indiana high school student, Emma, who wanted to bring their girlfriend to the prom, but the outraged PTA decided to cancel the event altogether.

This witty and well-written musical is as much a commentary about the egos, vanities, and ups and downs of the theatre world as it is about how it feels to be living in the fishbowl world of high school where your every word, deed, and action is judged by your so-called friends, fellow students, and community.

Expertly directed by Jeffrey Sanzel, every performer brought their A-game to this polished production. I loved the colorful, movable set by Randall Parsons and the live band conducted by Jeffrey Hoffman.

Jae Hughes, a versatile performer, gave an award-worthy performance as Emma, a bright and talented high school student who reluctantly becomes the poster child for LGBTQ teens. Hughes displayed her phenomenal acting and vocal skills with a moving version of "Just Breathe," where Emma laments, "Who knew asking out a girl to the prom would go over just like an atom bomb." Hughes, joined by the multi-talented ensemble, gave a moving rendition of "Unruly Heart."

Jillian Sharpe was extraordinary as Alyssa Greene, a cheerleader torn between her love for Emma and her need to please her mother and friends. Sharpe gave a moving performance during her solo "Alyssa Greene," pouring her heart out about her whole life being a lie. Hughes and Sharpe's duets "You Happened" and "It's Time to Dance" were real showstoppers.

With her strong stage presence and powerhouse vocals, Linda May was believable as Dee Dee Allen, a hugely talented, albeit egotistical Broadway legend. Her solo, "The Lady's Improving," was one of the show's highlights. I loved her glamorous diva outfits designed by Jason Allyn and Joe Kassner.

Ryan Nolin, with his expressive mannerisms, humorous dance moves, intense facial expressions, and expert comedic timing, gave a stellar performance as Barry Glickman, the gay but totally politically incorrect Broadway star. Nolin garnered some of the biggest laughs of the evening with his hilarious rendition of "Barry Is Going to Prom."

Theatre Three veteran Sari Feldman was charismatic and convincing as Angie Dickinson, a long-running ensemble member of the Broadway musical "Chicago," desperate to become a star. She gave a standout performance along with Emma (Jae Hughes) in the razzmatazz song and dance number "Zazz." Feldman looked smoking hot in all her skintight black-sequined outfits, a nod to Bob Fosse and his preferred dance-style costume.

Brian Gill aced the role of Trent Oliver, a pompous Julliard School graduate, down on his luck, although frequently recognized for his role in a beloved 90'sitcom "Talk to the Hand." Trent adamantly claims that his role on that TV show was just a small part of his theatrical resume. Gill brilliantly showcased his vocals and comedic talent during the fun and upbeat song "Love Thy Neighbor."

Dennis Creighton as Mr. Hawkins, the kind, concerned, and caring high school principal and love interest of Dee Dee Allen; Jason Allyn as Sheldon Sapertstein, the hardworking Broadway publicist; and Tamralynn Dorsa as Mrs. Greene, Alyssa's well-intentioned but misinformed mother, all delivered noteworthy performances.

A standing ovation goes out to Josie McSwane for her high-energy choreography and the entire cast and ensemble for executing the many dance numbers with "zazz," that magic ingredient known as "style plus confidence." The show's ensemble was one of the best you will see on any stage. It included Melanie Acampora, Sean Amato, Will Brennan, Julia Durfee, Kaitlyn Jehle, Will Logan, Liam Marsigliano, Anna Moceri, Cassidy Rose O'Brien, Isabella Scarpa, Michele Segal, Tara Shaw, Katy Snair, Ryan Van Nostrand, and Alexander Yagud-Wolek.

Take your date to "The Prom." The show runs through October 21, 2023. To purchase tickets, please call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Cindi Sansone-Braff is an award-winning playwright. She has a BFA in Theatre from UCONN and is a member of the Dramatists Guild. She is the author of "Grant Me a Higher Love," "Why Good People Can't Leave Bad Relationships," and "Confessions of a Reluctant Long Island Psychic." Her play, "The Menu," is featured in Kingdom Theatre's Playwright Celebration weekend, November 3, in New York City. www.Grantmeahigherlove.com.