‘Emojiland’ A Review
People love their emojis. What would writing a text be without them? But how about a musical where these emojis actually come to life? Would it be believable or could it be a fantasy or fairy tale? The answer to these questions is found in a new show aptly titled Emojiland. It is here that they actually come to life as the characters of the story. This alone could make it a show worth seeing. But it’s a lot more than that. For one thing, it is very funny, light-hearted, and it solves a big problem with great results. Can’t get more upbeat than that. Add to that an outrageously talented cast to tell the story and superb technology that helps to create a different world. Additionally there is good music and colorful costuming.The result is a brand new show that can please an audience no matter what their favorite emoji is.
Under the direction of Thomas Caruso, Emojiland has a book, music, and lyrics by Keith Harrison and Laura Schein. Choreography is by Kenny Ingram and musical direction is by Lena Gabrielle. Of note is that this show ran in a simpler style at the 2018 New York Musical Festival where it had 12 nominations and 5 wins. Check out my review of that show here.
Technology Creates the Landscapes
The story takes place in a part of an iPhone where the emojis are said to live. The stage comes alive through the use of advanced theatrical technology. It shifts depending upon the scene needed for the action. Watching the features of the technological displays is a show in itself.
A video screen and projection mapping are used to show original animated content. Advanced laser lighting technology flashes at critical points in the show. Light dances off the ceiling as it dazzles the main stage. It all works well together. Credit for the technology goes to David Goldstein, Lisa Renkel & POSSIBLE, and Jamie Roderick.
The Story – Human Qualities Abound in ‘Emojiland’
As the show begins, Emojiland introduces those characters who have been a part of the population for a long time. Even though they are digital creations, you might get a sense that you already know them. If you have actively used Smiley, The Skull, or even Pile of Poo, you recognize them immediately. Their parts are well written to reflect what they do online.
After a few opening songs, the emojis share their excitement because they are eagerly awaiting version 5.0 update. Update days are exciting because it brings new emojis to the land. A countdown runs and with a reset, the new version is installed. New characters like Nerd Face and the Prince emerge. They both face challenges trying to fit in with the established crowd. But the Prince especially is a threat to the over the top Princess. Sensing a power struggle, they unite to make sure they are not usurped in the next upgrade by a king. They agree to build a firewall to keep out any new upgrades. There are conflicts with the emojis about building this wall but finally it does go up. But not before the Skull approaches Nerd Face with his plea to help him with his despair. His desire to be deleted leads to a series of incidents that threaten the very existence of the land’s inhabitants and slowly they get deleted.
There is a very satisfying solution, one that allows everyone to come back and start over. And as for the wall, well you can interpret it in many ways. It does allow this show to have some good social statements with a little bit of a lesson learned along with a load of fun.
Musical numbers are crucial to the story and there is a good range of songs. A few examples include “It’s Just So Great to Be Alive,” the opening number, which sets the tone immediately. “The Progress Bar” is sung by the cast as the upgrade is being installed and a countdown goes on behind them. “Pile of Poo” is sung by the character of the same name and it is a hilarious moment in the show. The ballad “A Thousand More Words” is about the sadness of losing someone. And “Start Again” allows hope back into the land.
A Strong Cast Totally Rocks It
The cast does a superb job of making their emojis come to life with human characteristics and fabulous performances. These characters struggle with their lives, enjoy love and friendships, despair, disappointment, and loss.
Laura Schein, one of the main creatives of the show, plays Smiley Face (Smize) and does a wonderful job showing the conflict the character goes through in trying to smile while she hurts inside.
Heather Makalani plays Kissy Face and few other roles too. But her Kissy Face is absolutely adorable even though she betrays her friend Smize.
Dwelvan David plays the Guardsman and few other roles. His Guardsman is fervent in his duties which at times is funny to watch in action.
Jacob Dickey is the Smiling Face with Sunglasses, Sunny, who is the town hottie and flirt who just can’t quite make up his mind about who he really prefers to be his girlfriend.
Natalie Weiss plays Construction Worker who has a personal relationship with Police Officer played by Felicia Boswell. They sing well together and separately too especially Ms. Boswell who sings the sad “A Thousand More Words.”
Max Crumm plays Man in Business Suit Levitating. He moves easily onstage powered by a hoverboard and keeps a very serious look on his face the entire time.
Lesli Margherita is a stand out as the Princess. She originated the role in the NYMF run of the show and she continues to enhance it with her humorous take on this character. Her sliding down the pole is just one example of how she makes the stage come alive.
Josh Lamon plays the Prince. Because he keeps such tight control over the character it becomes hilarious to watch. But his subtle little remarks and attempts to control Princess are equally as funny.
George Abud as Nerd Face and Lucas Steele as Skull play two of the most pivotal roles of the show. Mr. Abud is exciting to watch as he solves the dilemma of saving the emojis. Mr. Steele’s singing voice brings the tone of despair to an intense level. He is amazing in this part.
Ann Harada turns in one of the funniest musical performances as Pile of Poo.
Jordan Fife Hunt and Tanisha Moore play Man and Woman Dancing and other roles. Their dancing is a nice enhancement to this show.
Who Will this Show Appeal To?
Emojiland is appropriate for theater goers of all ages. Younger people will enjoy seeing their emojis come to life. There are a few off color inferences but none that appear to be that serious a concern. If you have a theater goer who likes technology, then this is definitely the show for them. And there is something for audiences who want to sink their teeth into political/social overtones too.
Overall, anyone who enjoys going to a lighthearted show filled with good music, singing, and dancing will enjoy Emojiland.
Additional Information
Emojiland runs at the Duke Theater through March 8, 2020. Tickets are available online at Dukeon42.org; by phone at 646-223-3010; or in person at The Duke on 42nd Street at 229 West 42nd Street. Shows run Tuesdays-Fridays 4-7 and Saturdays 12-6.
The show runs approximately 2 hours and has an intermission.