In celebration of the 25th Anniversary of the underrated musical, A new immersive revival in Los Angeles is playing at the Whitley with the original creative team returning including Kristen Bell, Christian Campbell, and Alan Cumming, who are producing alongside creators Kevin Murphy and Dan Studney. The satire classic musical follows two love birds who go down on a hysterical adventure after discovering marijuana, which leads them to a world filled with desire, lust, and much more.

Spencer Liff who is the director and choreographer of the immersive and engaging production exceeds in all areas, making this production his best one yet. Liff is best known for creating fascinating productions such as ‘Hedwig’ and ‘Spring Awakening’. The fun begins as soon as you walk into an immersive environment at the Whitley Theater where you are greeted by characters from the cult classic who offer humorous dialogue and offer helpful tips that will make the night entertaining. Liff storytelling is captivating from every direction as he succeeds in creating a space that draws the viewer to a world that is flamboyant, sexy, animated, and at moments over the top.

At the center of it all, some of the most talented actors bring this story to life. Each actor delivers a very, startlingly memorable performance that showcases each performer’s skills and ability. Stand outs include the love birds Mary Jane (Darcy Rose Brynes) and Jimmy Harper (Anthony Norman) whose chemistry is as good as the film’s love birds who were played by Kristen Bell and Christian Campbell. Both actors dominate when a transformation is asked for. For example, when both characters first try marijuana, they both dominate in presenting another side of the character which is very well-developed. It’s quite powerful to see. Brynes is also very quirky, which helps see Mary Jane as a satirical/spoof of a Disney Princess. Harper focuses on good eye contact with the audience, which helps his emotions be seen as more understanding, engaging, and clear.

‘Reefer Madness: The Musical’ might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but this production deserves a Broadway run, as it includes what viewers are willing to pay for. For example, a revival of Cabaret is currently playing on Broadway, which is getting rave reviews. This musical is at the same level of that production. Today’s viewers ask for a more engaging experience, and at the Reefer Den, you get it. With that said, a safe place is offered where worries are left out the door and entertainment and laughter are at the center of it all, that’s what you get with ‘Reefer Madness: The Musical’.

Reefer Madness: The Musical plays for a limited run in Los Angeles. To purchase tickets, click here