There’s a particular excitement that comes when a beloved story is brought to life on a local stage. Titusville Playhouse embraces that energy with their production of the musical "Tootsie." The first show of the theater's 60th season opens Friday, July 26, for a run through Aug. 18.
With music and lyrics by David Yazbek and a book by Robert Horn, "Tootsie" is an adaptation of the 1982 film starring Dustin Hoffman. This entertaining musical follows talented but temperamental actor Michael Dorsey, whose reputation for being difficult has rendered him unemployable.
In a desperate bid for work, Michael disguises himself as a woman, Dorothy Michaels, and lands a starring role in a hit musical. As Dorothy becomes an overnight sensation, Michael finds himself juggling his dual identities and the complexities of both. The ruse also entangles him in a series of situations that challenge his views on gender and relationships.
"The show is written like a television sitcom so there is comedy that is flying by you at rapid pace," said director Steven Heron.
The show resonates on multiple levels: as a zany musical comedy and as social commentary. This production weaves in elements that reflect current conversations about gender and identity.
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"When 'Tootsie' debuted on Broadway, it was criticized for not taking into account these modern day thoughts," Heron said. "A lot of this has been addressed through Michael’s roommate."
"His roommate Jeff gets to point out how inappropriate the entire situation is, while letting the comedy of the original, that is still funny today, shine and make us all still laugh."
Casting a show like "Tootsie" is no small feat, especially when the lead role requires an actor to convincingly portray two distinct characters.
"We have worked with the wardrobe team from the Broadway tour show to figure out all of Michael/Dorothy’s transformations," Heron said. "I know people will have moments when they are like, 'wow!'"
Titusville Playhouse favorite Jordyn Linkous leads the cast as Michael Dorsey/Dorothy Michaels. Opposite Linkous, Emilee Mari Fruscella plays Julie Nichols, the charming leading lady who becomes Michael's unsuspecting love interest.
The supporting cast includes Erica deJongh as Michael’s neurotic friend Sandy, Chris deJongh as Jeff, Michael's roommate and the voice of reason, and Anthony Gjelaj as Max Van Horn, the clueless actor who falls for Dorothy.
"The show moves quick and the world is filled with people we can cheer for and laugh at," Heron said. "I can honestly say I laugh out loud every time we run the show."
Heron hopes the blend of humor and heart in "Tootsie" will give audiences a much-needed endorphin boost.
"I can think of no better way to start the season than laughing for two hours and humming a tune as you leave," he said. "'Tootsie' gives us this opportunity to come together for a brief time and forget the outside world, while everyone can have a blast laughing at the absurdity."
If you go
'Tootsie'
Where: Titusville Playhouse, 301 Julia Street, Titusville
When: 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Aug. 18
Tickets: Start at $31
Call: 321-268-1125
Website: titusvilleplayhouse.com
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Christina LaFortune is the Entertainment and TGIF Editor at FLORIDA TODAY. Follow her on Facebook at facebook.com/christinalafortune or send her an email at clafortune@floridatoday.com.
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