Never forgetting the original's humble beginnings, the staging is intentionally spare. When Peter/Spiderman swings through the concrete jungle, he's accompanied by actors waving illustrations of skyscrapers. And his slo-mo fights with various low-budget villains (during which they make sure to freeze for photo-ops) are a scream.
Speaking of intimacy, the four-member band is ensconced in a closet off to the side of the stage whose door is ceremoniously opened when it's time to start the main theme.
Theatre Unleashed's managing director, Gregory Crafts, says they've contacted the organizers of Comic-Con International to perform Spidey at this year's WonderCon in Anaheim and Comic-Con in San Diego. They'd be fools to refuse—not only are these perfect venues for the show, I can easily see it becoming an annual event.
The Spidey Project, with book and lyrics by Justin Moran and Jon Roufaeal and music by Adam Podd and Doug Katsaros, plays at Studio/Stage, 520 N. Western Ave., Hollywood.; Thurs.-Sat., 8 p.m.; select Sundays, 7:30 p.m.; through April 14th. Reservations can be made by calling (818) 849-4039 or online.
Photos: Alicia Reyes
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