CLUB27 – Jaxx Theatre
Reviewed by Amalisha HuEck
Highly Recommended
They did it again. Another amazing production by Jeremy Lucas and James Lent at Jaxx Theatricals in Hollywood. Produced by Colin Tracy and JD Morabito. The heart-felt musical extravaganza is not-to-be-missed.
Jaxx is a place where some extraordinarily powerful performances are being presented, with a large cast, who boldly give their energy and express powerful emotional depth through extraordinary dancing and singing skills, and demand full attention from the audience.
The World Premiere of Club27 is one of those shows. An original rock musical showcase featuring our favorite songs of yesteryear combined with themes of loss, addiction and mental health, and struggle for survival. With plenty of pizzazz, the show is infused with lots of upbeat dance, and soulful singing.
Conceived, written, directed and choreographed by Jeremy Lucas and arranged, conducted and music directed by James Lent. Denise Mota Asst. Director / Asst. Choreographer.
When we go to see a new production, we don’t think about what it took for that show to get written, produced and put on the stage. Jeremy Lucas, Creator of CLUB27 opens his heart and shares, ‘I always wondered why I hadn’t seen THIS jukebox musical. I struggled with how to find the way IN to the piece, and I knew I did not want the impersonations. While characters are loosely based on the most prominent members, it is more important the piece be infused with the essence and spirits of the actors portraying them regardless of color, sexual orientation, or gender identity.’
Jeremy is one of the Hearts and Souls of Jaxx Theatricals. I am entirely enchanted with his enormous talent, beauty of the Soul, and his magical creativity. He overcomes all obstacles and creates productions and stars by following his instinct. In his note from the creator he says, ‘I promised myself that the show would be created prior to 2027. And here is where the story turns. In April of 2024, my brother overdosed … again. This time was bigger and longer. He was in a coma until July … I wondered where he ‘was’ while he was in the coma… And I found my way to CLUB27.’ If you wonder what happened, you need to go see the show. You will not regret it – it is phenomenal!
The actors are pouring their hearts out with every step, every note, every emotion. Graham Kurtz (Rojo) and his piercing eyes. With deep, strong voice he opens the show and is there whenever the challenges arise. Diego Huerta-Gutierrez (Jolly), and Sam DV Jones (Bobbie), bring their bright lights and love into production. Erin Lee Smith (KC), with her beauty and joy lightens the show. Jill Marie Burke (Terry) and Brian Whisenant (Jamie), don’t say very much during the first act, but in the second act, when they open their mouths and let the notes out; they shake the building with their strength and emotional impact. Kyler Wells (Foxxxy) and Cierra Watkins (Val) and Brennan Eckberg (Lizard), create characters that demand attention. Katrina Negrette (Pearl), AJ Sear (BJ), Jackson Landreau (Nurse), Ethan Mullen (Doorman), Trinity Pedagat (Agent), Collyn Taylor (Nickie) with captivating, heartfelt emotions dance and sing with power of their individual artistic expression. I was sitting next to Olivia Stipo’s (Jordan) boyfriend and had a pleasure to listen to his admiration of her beauty and talent. Not to forget JD Morabito (Bartender), for his continuous loving support to Jeremy, and his talent as a dancer. He also took the role of Assistant Director and Assistant Choreographer this time. Good going, JD!
Understudies and swings are Sara Bunge*, Charlie Goodrich, Lis Gothelf, Amy Melendrez, Landry Noel and Cheyanne Taylor.
Club27 opened on October 10 and must close its limited engagement on October 30. The show runs 10/16-18, 23-25 & 28-30. All Wednesday-Saturday shows are at 8PM with Sundays at 7PM. The Jaxx Theatre is located at 5432 Santa Monica Blvd. in East Hollywood, 90029. The lobby, box office and bar open one hour prior to showtime and feature show-themed cocktails and mocktails. Parking is available at 1110 N. Western Ave. Tickets can be purchased at: https://events.leapevents.com/event/club27