Love in a Tub

"Love in a Tub" hews closer to the Fringe spirit of being young, foolish, and in love with theater than many shows at the festival. And while the cast and crew (and audience) have a blast with the musical's silly premise and facetious script, the show lacks the wit and sophistication to be anything more than a 90-minute inside joke.

You can almost imagine playwrights James Manzello (who also wrote the music and lyrics) and Oliver Wason over a couple of PBRs including in the show whatever crazy ideas come to mind. "Hey guys," they may have said, "let's take a Restoration comedy and set it to music inspired by '80s hair bands!" Then: "Half the cast can dress like 16th-century Europeans (some in drag), and half in spandex, like the guys from metal band Poison! Cool!"

And that's what you get. That doesn't mean the show is bad. The cast in particular is strong. Jimmy Joe McGurl is a commanding front man. Emily Kron's marvelous voice adds a touch of class. Chris Gizzi exhibits perfect comic delivery as the wisecracking drummer.

The score varies widely in quality; and the musical arrangements are weak and amateurish. The radio-friendly "Geni in Tears" is the best; the raunchy "Your Shit Is It" and the hilarious "Christmas Snake" are also memorable. Lui Konno's creative work with costumes—and big hair—is a highlight.

Presented by Dot the Connective as part of the New York International Fringe Festival at La MaMa ETC's Ellen Stewart Theatre, 66-68 E. Fourth St., NYC. Aug. 15–25. Remaining performances: Fri., Aug. 19, 4:15 p.m., Mon., Aug. 22, 2 p.m., Thurs., Aug. 25, 9:45 p.m. (866) 468-7619 or www.fringenyc.com.