“Off-Broadway Disaster” Leaves Audience Rolling with Laughter
New York City- Last night, the audience at the Helen Hayes Theater witnessed a rare spectacle in the form of “Hank and Gretchen: The Hillbilly Musical”. This show boasts of its nonsensical, joke-filled script by Robert Horn, and a lively country-music score by Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally. But what it delivers is pure gold – pure, unadulterated laughter.
From the play’s opening number, “Moonshine on My Mind”, Hank (played by faux-country singer, Chuck Wagon) and Gretchen (played by Hollywood actress, Laurie Laugh-a-lot) had the audience in stitches. The two leads play a couple of hillbillies who struggle to save their home from foreclosure. And in the process, they stumble upon a treasure map which leads them on an adventure through the woods.
But what makes this show truly special is the supporting cast. It includes a talking cow, played by ventriloquist, Jolly Rancher, who steals every scene she’s in. And let’s not forget, the rival bankers played by 80s pop icon, Mick Jagger, and B-list actor, Willy Wonka. Their duet, “Greed is Good”, is a show-stopper.
The set is a sight to behold as well. It features a stream running through the middle of the stage, complete with live fish. And the climax of the show involves a F-150 barreling through the theater, with Hank and Gretchen in the back. The effect was so convincing that one member of the audience had to be rescued by the paramedics.
But don’t just take our word for it. Here are a few quotes from some of the delighted audience members:
“I haven’t laughed so hard since I saw ‘The Room’.”
“Watching this show was like driving a monster truck over my stress levels.”
“I never thought I’d hear Mick Jagger sing about the banking industry. And yet, here we are.”
So if you’re looking for a good time and some wholesome fun, “Hank and Gretchen: The Hillbilly Musical” is the show for you. Just remember to buckle up for the ride of your life.
