Laura Benanti delivers a cringingly funny solo show in Nobody Cares, a Broadway star's confessional about being a recovering people pleaser. This 65-minute performance, reviewed here, explores her journey from a naive ingenue to a Tony-winning national treasure, with sharp humor and musical interludes.
What Makes Laura Benanti's Nobody Cares Unique?
The show thrives on Benanti's self-deprecating charm. She recounts being propositioned by bigshot producers at age 18 and breaking her neck during Into the Woods, all while hiding her pain as a pathological people pleaser. The cringe comedy peaks when she describes squirming out of a marriage proposal in the most awkward way imaginable.
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Musical Highlights and Performances
Accompanied by musical director Todd Almond and a two-piece band, Benanti's songs are droll and heartfelt. A standout number about the lies we tell children devolves into schmaltz but remains entertaining. The show's strength lies in its dialogue between her older, wiser self and her hapless younger counterpart.
| Aspect | Strong Points | Weak Points |
|---|---|---|
| Humor | Cringingly funny anecdotes about conflict avoidance | Second half loses focus on the 'recovering ingenue' theme |
| Music | Clever songs with emotional depth | Some moments feel schmaltzy |
| Storytelling | Honest look at divorce and motherhood | Assumes divorces are shameful, which feels dated |
Key Takeaways from the Review
- Laura Benanti shines as a comedian and storyteller, especially in the first half.
- The show's best moments come from her self-deprecating tales of youth.
- Second half dilutes the core theme with generic life lessons.
- Musical numbers are a highlight, blending humor and vulnerability.
FAQ
Is Laura Benanti's Nobody Cares worth watching?
Yes, if you enjoy cringe comedy and Broadway star memoirs. The first half is especially strong, though the second half loses some focus.
What is the main theme of Nobody Cares?
The show explores being a recovering people pleaser and ingenue, but expands into broader life lessons about motherhood and divorce.
How long is Laura Benanti's solo show?
The performance runs for 65 minutes, featuring musical accompaniment by Todd Almond and a two-piece band.
Overall, Nobody Cares is a mixed bag but offers plenty of laughs and insight for fans of Laura Benanti. It's a cringe comedy that succeeds when it stays true to its ingenue roots, even if it occasionally wanders into schmaltz.