Grumpy Old Men at Minneapolis Musical Theatre

Grumpy Old Men--yes, the 1993 film starring Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau--gets the old musical treatment. Minnesotans have a soft spot for this movie already as it's not only set in Minnesota, but parts of it were filmed here. It became an unexpected hit, spawning a sequel and even an annual festival in Wabasha, where the film was set. 

Now this local favorite is brought to life in the Twin Cities, appropriately enough by Minneapolis Musical Theatre, whose tagline is "Rare Musicals. Well Done." Grumpy Old Men plays through April 19 at the Conn Theater in Minneapolis. 

The plot of the musical follows the movie, as far as I remember. Two neighbors, John Gustafson (Jim Ahrens) and Max Goldman (Ward Eames), both widowers, have been feuding as long as anyone can remember. When Ariel (Caitlin Burns) moves in across the street, they both set their sights on her and shenanigans ensue. From the opening number that introduces the characters of the town, the audience knows what we are in for. It's a folksy, corny, broad comedy, and the company, under the sure direction of Kari Steinbach, knows the assignment. 

However, the charm in this production goes beyond the three very endearing leads and their story. This is where Minneapolis Musical Theatre really excels. Although you might think that GOM is another rote movie-to-musical, the characters in this show really make it a treat. The company, excellently cast, make the absolute most of their characters, quirks and all. I love a show with so many opportunities for stand-out individual numbers from the secondary characters. 

From shopkeeper Chuck (Quintin Michael, with a gorgeous, rich voice) to his quirky cousin Punky (Lisa Denninger, yodeling no less!) to saucy Grandpa Gustafson (Michael Frischetti, who gets some of the best lines) and the accident-prone but optimistic mailman Harry (Brandon Osero), each character gets their moment in the limelight and makes the most of it. And as counterpoint to the battling Gustafson and Goldman, their grown children Melanie (Jillian Bader) and Jacob (James Lane) beautifully depict lost dreams and caring for aging parents with heart and truth.

And we haven't even MENTIONED Kayla Hambek as Sandra Snyder, a buttoned-up IRS agent who's coming after Gustafson's back taxes. She plays the role to the hilarious hilt and tears up the stage. 

With its blend of heartfelt moments and comedy, this show is a charming delight that I could see as a recurring holiday show for the whole family--as long as they have a high tolerance for slightly blue language and slightly dirty jokes.