The beloved mental patients from The Habit have returned to Seattle Public Theater with a new musical parody, this time paying tribute to the classic film, “Jurassic Park.”
This entertaining performance, titled “Jurassic Parking Lot,” combines elements from the original film with the creative chaos that fans have come to love from the team behind hits like “A Very Die Hard Christmas” and “Titanish.”
Director Mark Siano and writers Jeff Schell and David Swidler have ensured that the show features memorable impressions of iconic characters, adding both humor and heart to the production.
Throughout the performance, audiences will find all the key players from the original saga, starting with Sean Vale’s spot-on impression of Richard Attenborough as John Hammond.
The characters Dr. Ellie Sattler and Dr. Alan Grant, played by Kayla Walker and Quinn Armstrong, serve as the straight men amidst the surrounding chaos.
Adding to the comedic cast, Ray Tagavilla perfectly embodies the lascivious Dr. Ian Malcolm, while the youthful characters Lexi and Timmy, portrayed by Rachael Uyeno and Julia Kuzmich, provide comic relief through their reckless antics.
Once again, Brandon Felker shines as Dennis Nedry, the mercenary computer genius.
Furthermore, Jordan-Michael Whidbey portrays a chain-smoking Ray Arnold, adding a frustrated dimension to the character, while Jacquelyn Miedema captures the grizzled gamekeeper Muldoon.
A standout feature of the show is the ensemble of raptors, played by Amelia Dooley, Katheryn Reed, Tessa “Cricket” James, Helen Roundhill, and Kuzmich, who break into outrageous musical numbers, creating an unforgettable experience for audiences.
However, the creative trio of Schell, Swidler, and Siano go beyond the expected elements of the show, infusing it with unexpected twists that keep the audience engaged.
One unexpected highlight is the inclusion of Clippy, the Microsoft Office assistant, showing just how far the imagination can stretch in this parody.
The raptors’ routine, reminiscent of the ensemble from the musical “Chicago,” dazzles the audience while the voice of the truck adds another layer of hilarity as it channels Gilbert Gottfried.
The cast displays professional talent, with special mention to Mary Guthrie, who seamlessly switches between multiple characters, showcasing her versatility.
Among the standout performances, Armstrong infuses the straight man’s role with a surprising layer of comedic depth, while Felker’s ability to engage the audience from a seated position is nothing short of impressive.
Tagavilla’s comedic timing adds an extra oomph to his act, making his portrayal of Goldblum’s character both funny and eerily accurate.
Kuzmich’s rambunctious interpretation of Timmy adds layers of charm, making him a standout in moments of peril.
While “Jurassic Parking Lot” may not be as polished as some of its predecessors, it still offers an abundance of laughs and is a delightful addition to Seattle’s theater scene.
With the production still finding its footing, audiences are nonetheless in for an enjoyable evening.
In a light-hearted conclusion, the performance was rated as a “Life finds a way” YAY, reinforcing the notion that laughter and entertainment are alive and well at the Seattle Public Theater.
For anyone looking for a fun night out, the recommendation stands strong: leave the children at home and go experience “Jurassic Parking Lot” before it slips away.
image source from：broadwayworld
