Review: POTUS OR, BEHIND EVERY GREAT MAN ARE SEVEN WOMEN TRYING TO KEEP HIM ALIVE, Arden Theatre Philadelphia
Photo credit: Ashley Smith
POTUS or, Behind Every Great Man Are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive is one of the funniest (like pee your pants kind of funny) musicals to ever exist. It is raucous and dirty, with an expletive laden script so it’s definitely not for the kids and some adults may find it too raunchy but it is a wildly good time!
The blend of political satire and humour, especially with that cheeky title, really sets the stage for some hilarious moments. It’s always refreshing when a musical can tackle serious themes while keeping the laughs coming.
The show opens with a bustling West Wing of the White House and POTUS’s Chief of Staff (played by the fantastic Susan Riley Stevens) and his Press Secretary (played by the amazing Karen Peakes) flipping out by the President’s latest blunder. As the day goes on, the onslaught of his careless blunders start catching up with them and they struggle with the news cycle frenzy. We meet the rest of the insanely talented cast, Suzanne O’Donell (Stephanie), Rachel Leslie (Margaret), Jessica Johnson (Chris), Kimberly Gilbert (Bernadette), and Alia Munsch (Dusty). Each character brings their own motivations, challenges, and unique talents that revolve around the President and we begin to see just how complicated things are.
In the end, there are some unexpected outcomes but the women have come together and used their resiliency and camaraderie to save the day. They find humour in the chaos and the audience leaves with a renewed sense of empowerment and hope that is desperately needed in this Presidential Election year.
The Arden Theater never disappoints with their shows and POTUS or, Behind Every Great Man Are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive is an audience favourite, and has been extended until 13 October so get your tickets now before it’s too late!
Brilliant and hilarious!
***** Five stars
Reviewed by: Jamie Flowers