Riverside Theatre has embarked on a nostalgic journey with its production of "Mystic Pizza," a musical inspired by the 1988 coming-of-age film. This vibrant show centers around three young women navigating life’s challenges in a quaint Connecticut fishing village. Through a mix of heartfelt drama and catchy tunes, the musical explores themes of friendship, love, and personal growth. The story unfolds against the backdrop of a bustling pizzeria, where Kat, Daisy, and Jo grapple with their aspirations and relationships. Despite some narrative inconsistencies, the cast delivers compelling performances, and the production's authentic 1980s vibe captivates audiences.
The heart of the story lies in the lives of Kat, Daisy, and Jo. Kat, portrayed by Alaina Anderson, is the ambitious younger sister who dreams of attending Yale but faces financial hurdles. Her job at a vacation home leads her to Tim, an architect renovating a historic coastal property. Their budding romance adds depth to Kat’s character as she navigates her future. Meanwhile, Daisy, played by Krystina Alabado, represents the free-spirited sibling content with her current lifestyle, though she occasionally questions her path. The third friend, Jo (Deánna Giulietti), finds herself at a crossroads when she faints during her wedding vows, reflecting her fear of settling into an unfulfilling life.
The musical’s strength lies in the chemistry between the three main characters. Their lifelong friendship feels genuine, with moments that highlight both the closeness and tensions inherent in family dynamics. However, the integration of well-known 1980s hits sometimes detracts from the narrative. While these songs provide a fun, familiar soundtrack, they occasionally clash with the more serious plot developments, creating a disconnect between the story and the music. For instance, pivotal emotional scenes are sometimes overshadowed by upbeat tunes that feel out of place.
One standout moment occurs when Kat and Tim sing Van Morrison’s “Into the Mystic” on the balcony of the historic house. This song resonates deeply with the setting and enhances the emotional connection between the characters. Another highlight comes in the second act, where the pizzeria staff combines “All I Need is a Miracle” and “You Keep Me Hanging On” into a humorous prayer for a visiting food critic’s approval. Jennifer Fouché shines in this scene as Leona, the pizzeria’s owner, bringing levity and charm to the performance.
Despite some limitations in adapting the film to the stage, the production remains engaging. James Hindman’s versatility in multiple roles adds layers to the storytelling, particularly as the priggish food critic whose opinion could make or break the pizzeria. The technical elements also deserve praise: Connor Gallagher’s choreography captures the essence of 1980s dance moves, Jen Caprio’s costumes vividly depict the era’s fashion, and Nate Bertone’s set design effectively transports audiences to the coastal town. Overall, "Mystic Pizza" offers a delightful blend of nostalgia and drama, inviting viewers to relive the 1980s while exploring timeless themes of love and self-discovery.