‘The Full Monty’ at Workhouse Arts Center

Fun, disarming musical about lives turned upside down.

An affectionate, heartfelt and bawdy musical story of unemployed steelworkers from Buffalo who need to pay their bills, “The Full Monty” is about finding ways to conquer fears and prejudices, and then to become a group sensation in ways never expected. A musical with special pizazz about one-time losers who become winners with some unexpected “let it go” special skills.

Based on the hit film of the same name, “The Full Monty” has fifteen musical numbers that range from rock to ballads. It is a multi-Tony Award nominee musical show from the keen comedic minds of book writer Terrence McNally, known for “Ragtime,” and composer/lyricist David Yazbek, known for “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” and “The Band’s Visit.”

The Workhouse production is co-directed by and choreographed by Workhouse Theatre veterans Jeffrey Davis and Mary Payne. The two helmed last season’s “Rock of Ages” at the Workhouse.

“They’re an incredibly talented and imaginative team. They’re also adept at making ‘big’ musicals fit well in our intimate venue,” said Joseph Wallen, director, performing arts, Workhouse Arts Center. “’The Full Monty’ story is full of humor and jazz-influenced rock-and-roll score, so it does get a little rowdy in the theatre!”

“One of the big questions I am asked; is the show with stripping? I think for those who haven’t seen this title before that might be the thing that intrigues them. But there is so much more to the production,” added Wallen.

Music direction of the live band is by Chelsea Majors who leads a seasoned troupe of four musicians, all veterans from past Workhouse musical productions. Majors has been onstage at Workhouse Theatre for productions such as “Rock of Ages,” and “Rocky Horror Show.”

“The Full Monty” has a cast of more than a dozen, including local professional theatre veterans and those making their Workhouse debuts. The cast includes Michael Omohundro, Sean Garcia, Jessi Scott, Tobin Moss, Melynda Burdette. Matt Calvert. Dylan Toms, Aaron Talley, Kristin Renee Reeves. Anthony Williams, Genevieve Williams, Alexander Gordon, Danny Seal, Dana Maginity and Rebecca Kiser.

As lyrics to “The Full Monty’s” final big number “Let it Go” ask: “Did I capture your imagination? Did I break you down and make you smile?”

Where and When

Workhouse Arts Center presents “The Full Monty” at W3 Theatre, 9518 Workhouse Way, Building W3, Lorton. Performances April 19 to May 19, 2019. Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., Sundays at 2 p. m. Tickets: $20-$35 (*Ticket prices may increase, based on demand. Advanced purchase recommended). Call 703-584-2900 or visit www.workhousearts.org. Note: Due to themes, adult language and nudity, the production of “The Full Monty” is recommended for 18 and older.