A Date to Remember: 'First Date: The Musical' at Colonial Chorus Players

Maybe tonight is the night you’re going to find the one.

You’re invited to Colonial Chorus Players’ First Date: The Musical. Aaron and Casey meet for a blind date at a restaurant. All the nightmares, awkward moments, and relative fantasies ensue as they try to enjoy the evening.

Let’s see - awkward pauses, singing waiters, and fantasies of past exes - yup, sounds like a first date. Colonial Chorus Players’ First Date: The Musical is an energetic show with hilarious characters, upbeat songs, and a relatable theme centered around first dates. Dating can be a nightmare, but you never know what you’ll learn about anybody, including yourself.

Richie DeJesus and Kimberly Merck play Aaron and Casey. In contrast to their characters, DeJesus and Merck establish excellent chemistry. Their conversations feel natural. They study their personalities, quirks, and vulnerabilities. The actors' explorations and chemistry really give us a sense of these characters.

Aaron and Casey learn more than they expected once they’re past the small talk and slip-ups in conversations. Casey has a rough exterior, but she’s restraining more personal matters than she realizes. As for Aaron, he learns that it’s okay to let go of personal matters, freeing himself.

Colonial Chorus Players assembles a talented group of actors. First Date: The Musical has a total of fifteen characters, played by seven actors! All the characters are essential. This show is an excellent example that no small part exists in the theater. It was impressive to see actors morph from one character into the next.

Michael Silvia and Katie Iafolla play Gabe and Lauren. Have you ever had mind arguments with relatives or friends during first dates? Gabe and Lauren have amusing commentary for Aaron and Casey. Both had prompt comedic timing. Iafolla also has two other roles, presenting a wonderful singing voice in each.

Robb Laureles is hysterical as the rapping and dramatic Reggie. He is a very supportive friend to Casey, leaving her several bailout messages. And then, there are the people who remain on your mind, for better or worse. Kristen Sehn captures Allison's flirty personality.

And then there’s the singing (and sarcastic) waiter, played with comical wonder by Stephen Russo. ‘I’d Order Love’ is an entertaining song.

The moment I walked into the theater, the set immediately caught my eye. Set designer David Bilodeau created a cozy, stylish, and intimate restaurant atmosphere, complete with tables, plush lounge chairs, and a trendy bar area.

With Colonial Chorus Players’ intimate theatre layout, I felt immersed in the story. A dedicated tech crew enhances the experience with vibrant lighting, costumes, and sound.

First Date: The Musical has upbeat tunes and dance numbers, accompanied by music director Andrew Wray and a live orchestra. Aaron and Casey sing about ‘First Impressions’ and do research about the other in the song ‘The World Wide Web is Forever.’ This ensemble number is especially fun, showcasing a variety of social media apps.

Beyond its comical nature, the show also has heartfelt moments. Songs like ‘Safer’ and ‘The Things I Never Said’ reflect Aaron and Casey’s personal matters.

In her musical directorial debut, Allison Holloway presents the disasters and dramas of dating, but recognises what little we know about others. Holloway made excellent use of the stage in her direction, along with character work. Keep trying and take a chance.

Get ready to laugh, dance in your seats, laugh some more, and also watch heartfelt moments. First Date: The Musical performs at Colonial Chorus Players from May 2 through May 11. Make it a date night and attend a performance.