Another incredible review of Groundhog Day: The Musical has landed – this time in the Long Beach Press Telegram and Grunion Gazette. Everyone at Landmark is beyond thrilled with the continued incredible reception that this show has received from both critics and audiences alike. Read excerpts from this review below, and the full article is available online.
Under inspired direction by Megan O’Toole, the production brings refreshing levity and unexpected depth to this tale of self-discovery.
– Sean McMullen, The Press Telegram
Jay Dysart, as Phil, captures the character’s outlandish arrogance and vulnerability with a forceful energy that commands the stage. His performance is, in a word, monumental. Dysart brilliantly traces Phil’s evolution from cynic to sincere, packing an emotional punch into each repeated day, making his journey as fresh and surprising for the audience as if it were their first time.
– Sean McMullen, The Press Telegram
Lauren McGunigale, as Rita, perfectly complements Dysart’s intensity with her gentle yet grounding presence. Her chemistry with Dysart becomes the axis on which the entire show pivots, lending heart to the otherwise campy and comedic storyline. McGunigale’s Rita is an anchor in Phil’s dizzying spiral, bringing out the sincerity behind the slapstick humor. Her role makes us care not just about Phil’s redemption but about the world he grows to appreciate. It’s a delicate balance she handles masterfully.
– Sean McMullen, The Press Telegram
As Ned Ryerson, Mark Waters provides some of the production’s most memorable moments, breathing humor and pathos into the often-overlooked insurance agent.
– Sean McMullen, The Press Telegram
Amanda Webb as Nancy Taylor brings depth to the seemingly vapid small-town dreamer, delivering a powerful solo that highlights the bittersweet hopes of a character often resigned to the background.
– Sean McMullen, The Press Telegram
The director’s vision skillfully marries the zany with the profound, giving the show just the right blend of self-aware theatre gags and meaningful metaphors. By balancing humor with poignant introspection, the production underscores Phil’s transformation, making his journey both amusing and inspiring.
– Sean McMullen, The Press Telegram
The scenic design by Nathan Amondson deserves special praise, as it transforms the historic church’s challenging space into a believable, captivating Punxsutawney.
– Sean McMullen, The Press Telegram
Kudos also to Curtis Heard, who expertly leads the live orchestra in performing Minchin’s musically complex score.
– Sean McMullen, The Press Telegram
And perhaps one of the most fulfilling quotes we’ve heard in recent memory:
With “Groundhog Day” Landmark has found its sunrise—a story full of heart that mirrors its mission to transform and renew the community it serves, day after day.”
– Sean McMullen, The Press Telegram
Groundhog Day runs for two more weekends!