The enterprising youngsters from Washington, D.C.—songwriter Nick Blaemire and librettist James Gardiner—caught the attention of Eric Schaffer, artistic director of Virginia's Signature Theatre, who staged their creation at his venue in January 2008, then took it to New York, where it played 17 previews, closing following opening night. It's not surprising that this unpretentious portrait of 20-something angst proved out of its element on the Great White Way. In its premiere L.A. rendition as a bare-bones four-hander, the piece is modestly charming, enhanced by a quartet of winning performers.
Director Calvin Remsberg helms a lean 90-minute production, showing his eager young actors off to good advantage as they belt and croon their way through Blaemire's appealing pop-rock songs reminiscent of Jonathan Larson's "Rent" score. The mostly declaratory numbers, backed by a four-man combo under the expert music direction of James May, neatly dovetail into Gardiner's minimally plotted book.
A year following graduation, four pals reconvene at their high school football field. All had been ostracized by snobby classmates and arrogant athletes, thus forming a close bond among themselves. The boys discuss a revenge plot, but they get sidetracked as they reminisce and realize ways they have grown apart. A startling revelation from one lad becomes a catalyst for further ruminations on the durability of friendship.
As Will, a sensitive soul who keeps a diary, the superb Derek Klena belts out the exuberant introductory number, "My Three Best Friends." Alex Robert Holmes excels as the once-outspoken rebel Skip, who now has become more of a voice of reason. As the swaggering Andy, the character closest to being unlikable, Matthew Koehler brings welcome tension to the generally low-key proceedings. The engaging Ian Littleworth takes the pivotal role of sweet-tempered Jack, also upping the dramatic ante in his soaring ballad, "Open Road."
Andy Hammer's simple but evocative scenic design provides a credible background for the high school setting, and Jeremy Pivnick's fine lighting sharpens the dramatic transitions. Blaemire, Gardiner, and the excellent ensemble cast are budding talents worth watching.
Presented by Bella Vista Entertainment at the Lillian Theatre, 1076 Lillian Way, Hollywood. Mar. 19–Apr. 24. Thu.–Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 3 p.m. (323) 960-7792. www.plays411.com/glorydays.