In a striking showcase of local talent, the original musical production ‘Here and Their’ is currently captivating audiences at 12th Ave Arts. This heartfelt performance encapsulates the essence of Seattle’s vibrant theater scene, offering a blend of originality, humor, and emotional depth that leaves a lasting impression.
Written and directed by Jasmine Joshua, with music and lyrics composed by Heather Ragusa, and interstitial music by YUELAN, ‘Here and Their’ takes center stage as a passion project seven years in the making. The narrative follows Sam, portrayed by Chloe Payne, a bride-to-be from Montana who grapples with the pressures of societal gender expectations as their wedding approaches.
From the very beginning, it is evident that Sam is uncomfortable amid the exuberant and high-femme atmosphere of their bachelorette party. The wedding — a traditional symbol of love and unity — becomes a mirror reflecting outdated gender norms and serves as a springboard for Sam’s deeper journey toward self-discovery.
Questions abound regarding acceptance and understanding: Will Sam’s fiancé comprehend their true self? What about their mother and their sister Meghan, who embodies a stereotypically ‘girly’ and straight-coded demeanor? The inquiry extends to the community of Butte, Montana – do they grasp the nuances of being nonbinary? Furthermore, one of the pivotal themes of the musical explores whether Sam should even go through with the marriage.
Seeking wisdom, Sam turns to an unexpected source: an aunt they didn’t even know existed, stage-named Vicky Vektor, played by Meg McLynn. Vicky, a queer woman and a rockstar from the 1980s, grapples with her own identity and the pressures of conforming to societal expectations, making her a beacon of strength and guidance for Sam.
The balance of humor and vulnerability is a hallmark of ‘Here and Their,’ with Sam and Vicky confronting the complexities surrounding authenticity and belonging. In one particularly charming aspect of the show, a trio of anthropomorphic internet muses, portrayed by Juniper Johns, Marine Wingett, and Rylynn Davis, helps Sam navigate the onslaught of questions, anxieties, and possibilities arising from coming out. This classic theatrical technique artfully intertwines traditional storytelling with contemporary themes, cleverly highlighting the character’s online quest for self-identification.
Chloe Payne’s portrayal of Sam is authentic and relatable. The character’s awkwardness and discomfort resonate deeply, yet they remain charming and familiar. Payne’s vocal abilities shine through in emotionally charged songs that anchor the narrative. The performance transitions from uncertain physicality to a more confident presence as Sam embraces their journey toward self-acceptance.
The chemistry between Payne and James Lee, who plays Sam’s fiancé, David, is endearing. Their interactions, such as David’s earnest attempt to bake a pie shaped like a Dungeons & Dragons die, add to the authenticity of their relationship. Sam’s love for math is also humorously expressed in a dedicated song, showcasing the musical’s clever writing.
Ellen Dessler Smith, as Sam’s mother, Sarah, brings humor to the production, particularly in her clumsy stumbles over pronouns, which are both amusing and painfully relatable. Each character contributes to a tapestry that explores complex family dynamics amid evolving perceptions of gender.
Meg McLynn’s performance as Vicky Vektor stands out as a vibrant portrayal of a character grappling with her past and present. McLynn embodies both the tough exterior of a rocker and the internal struggles associated with relevance and identity. Her connection with Selena Whitaker-Paquiet, who plays Tommy — Vicky’s partner and co-owner of The Pink Triangle bar — deepens the narrative, enriching their storyline with layers of warmth, vulnerability, and realism. Together, they explore the dualities of personal sacrifice in the pursuit of success and the importance of staying true to oneself.
Musically, ‘Here and Their’ sets itself apart by skillfully integrating original songs that advance both the plot and emotional resonance of the characters’ journeys. Heather Ragusa’s score enhances each narrative moment, ensuring that the music serves not as an interruption, but as an essential extension of the story. The show adeptly utilizes song as a storytelling tool, making it impossible to imagine the narrative existing without its musical components.
The choreography, designed by Elizabeth Ppsluns and Laura McFarlane, is another standout element. The innovative use of the limited black box space keeps the energy alive throughout the production, facilitating seamless transitions between locations, such as Sam’s inherited dive bar and Vicky’s co-owned LA gay bar, The Pink Triangle. Despite the constraints of the venue, the staging is imaginative and practically effective. However, there are moments when the lighting design detracts from the performances, occasionally overshadowing intimate emotional exchanges. A more subtle approach in those instances could have amplified the delivery and emotional weight of the songs.
Ultimately, what resonates most about ‘Here and Their’ is its exploration of identity, love, and the universal human experience, framed through the lens of personal vulnerability. It transcends the confines of a typical coming-out story by addressing broader themes of acceptance and familial connections, enhancing its appeal. The narrative possesses a softness that transforms challenging conversations into a hopeful dialogue, creating a dreamlike scenario that resonates with many individuals grappling with their identities.
The humor interwoven throughout the show is also worth noting. The comedic sensibilities ensure that even in moments of vulnerability, the narrative remains buoyant and engaging, steering clear of mean-spirited humor. The cast excels in delivering comedic timing, particularly the internet muses, who consistently generate laughter.
For a local production, ‘Here and Their’ offers exceptional value. It outshines more expensively produced musicals that may lack the same heart, originality, and craft. This production embodies the spirit of great local theater: bold, inventive, and authentically passionate. As it continues to be showcased through June 28th, there’s hope for its future and potential larger platform.
Support local, queer theater during pride month by experiencing this uplifting exploration of identity!
For tickets and more information, visit hereandtheirthemusical.com.
image source from：https://www.broadwayworld.com/seattle/article/Review-HERE-AND-THEIR-at-12th-Ave-Arts-20250615
