Translating a cartoon to the stage may seem like an eyebrow-raising endeavour. I’ve been raving to my friends and family about The Spongebob Musical since it opened in Chicago in 2016, and I’ve always been met with instant scepticism. Our entertainment world is producing more adaptations and remakes than we can keep track of these days, and it’s understandable to be unsure of how the two mediums could relate to each other – but Tara Wikinson’s rendition of The SpongeBob Musical would prove any of them wrong.
Under Steve Howell’s set design, Bikini Bottom becomes an elaborate stage of neons, an eclectic mix of old and futuristic fashions – which meshes perfectly with its bill of songwriters, including the likes of David Bowie, Cyndi Lauper, and Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith. Sarah Mercadé’s costume design was amazingly crafty, and a closer look reveals them to be made of items you’ll find around your house. Part of Pearl’s skirt is a deconstructed umbrella; sea anemone’s rubbery-looking tentacles are made of washing gloves; some wigs are made of CDs, tennis racket heads, and red solo cups. The costume design of The SpongeBob Musical manages to combine the styles of iconic periods such as New Wave fashions with the world Stephen Hillenburg originally crafted, making for a memorable experience.
The cunning craftiness is fitting for a show containing Drag Race UK finalist Divina de Campo as Plankton. The character is scientifically miniscule – but de Campo makes the role anything just with her showmanship and 4-octave vocal range. I was delighted to see that Plankton was dragged up in a costume and makeup design sharply different from other productions – where he is played typically more masculine-presenting – showing us a stark example of just how much different forms of expression can impact theatrical looks and create a fresh experience. De Campo’s appearance alone in a show about optimism and the dangers of ostracism is particularly poignant in a political climate where the weak-minded have likened the art of drag to sinister intent, though if you’ve half a brain you’d know a person’s shortcomings are because of their own selves and not their career or hobby. The SpongeBob Musical’s core message about giving it your all, and taking pride in yourself and your qualities – even if you’re like SpongeBob, and you’re not sure what your special quality is – is enhanced by the diversity of its cast.
If one word could be said about The SpongeBob Musical, it’s ‘cohesive’. From aesthetics to acting and vocal talent, it wraps up in a fantastic package, proving that its crew and cast can more than take on the task of adapting the beloved children’s cartoon. Its themes of acceptance as well as optimism is one that got this reviewer through some tough spots – so aside from the visual spectacle it’s a must-see for anyone who would benefit from a bolster of confidence and cheer. Just like Hillenburg’s cartoon, The SpongeBob Musical is guaranteed to make you smile all the way through – that is, until you stand up to cheer at the end.
Theatre Review by our Theatre Reviewer Jonah Zalick #OnePlymouth
