Jonathan Larson's Tick, Tick... Boom!

Minneapolis Musical Theatre has brought back Jonathan Larson's musical gem, Tick, Tick... Boom!, in a stunning jewel-box production that showcases his talent and promise before he burst onto the scene with Rent. The show is set in 1990, a pivotal time for Larson as he navigated the early struggles of his career and teetered on the brink of monumental achievement.

The production at Bryant Lake Bowl Cabaret Theater is surprisingly intimate, with no scenery, modest lighting, and sound design that serves to heighten the emotional impact. But what really shines is the major talents delivering the songs and connecting the storyline with full hearts. The result is a rich emotional pay-off that will leave audiences enthralled.

Larson's musical is a good, albeit modest, work that features one winning song after another. It was originally conceived as a solo show backed by a rock band, but unfortunately, this concept failed to take off. Instead, Larson went on to create Rent, his masterpiece, which catapulted him to international fame.

Tick, Tick... Boom! is not just a fascinating look at Larson's early work; it also provides insight into the struggles he faced as a young artist trying to make a name for himself in the competitive world of musical theater. The show spotlights his state of mind and career in 1990, a time when he was still finding his footing.

This production is a testament to the enduring legacy of Jonathan Larson's work and serves as a reminder of what might have been if he had not tragically passed away before Rent opened on Broadway. The loss of his talent is still felt today, but productions like this one keep his memory alive and allow us to appreciate the immense impact he had on American musical theater.

Katie O'Halloran, Matt Tatone, and Daniel Greco shine in this outstanding production of Tick, Tick... Boom!

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