Last week, Helen on 86th Street made its World Premiere at the American Theatre of Actors (314 W. 54th Street). Based on the popular Wendi Kaufman short story, Helen follows the story of Vita. Vita is a “Little Miss Sunshine”-type tween struggling with her mom, an absentee father and a disappointing role in the school production. A new musical by Nicole Kempskie and Robby Stamper, it is a story of loss, longing and acceptance. Like the epic Greek story it echoes, The Illiad, Helen carries a message of hope and most importantly redemption. Helen on 86th Street runs now through May 8th.
As a musical, Helen on 86th Street is a little lackluster. The script has plot holes that are only answered if you read the short story. For example, why does a twelve-year old girl have matches so available to her in 2011? I had a copy of the short story in my press packet, but I wonder if everyone else was in the loop.
The score was average at best. The songs reiterated the action but didn’t do much to further it. It was hard to remember any of the tunes once the house lights came up.
Kempskie pulled double duty as Director for this premiere as well. I felt like she made good use of an odd space. After all, she had a cast of nineteen to handle. Nonetheless, her staging became predictable at some point. She relied too heavily on action going from left to right. When she played with the vertical advantages of the theatre, she immediately caught my interest. I wish Kempskie pursued this further.
The strongest part of the show was fifteen of the cast members under the age of sixteen. Frankly, these kids can act. Every one of them made smart choices and were super interesting to watch.
My favorite actress of the cast would have to be Aurielle Kaminski. She played Vita’s nemesis – Helen McGuire. Miss Kaminski has comedic timing far beyond her years. While most kids her age play big on the stage, she found a way to play her role with mature subtlety. Not only did she hit every joke, she found the jokes between the jokes. I completely see Miss Kaminski giving SNL's Kristen Wiig a run for her money, once she’s old enough to drive of course.
For more info on Helen on 86th Street, check out www.helenon86th.com.
