Broadway's Comedy Renaissance

Broadway is undeniably experiencing a comedy renaissance, with audiences frequently erupting in laughter at a range of productions, from the touching “Eureka Day” to the audacious “Cult of Love.” In this vibrant atmosphere, Simon Rich’s Broadway debut, “All In,” which promises to explore the “Comedy About Love,” attempts to join this esteemed lineup. However, reviewers are left wondering if this 90-minute show at the Hudson Theater is memorable, or merely a slight affair destined to be forgotten.

Cast and Performance

Fans of Rich’s quirky humor, showcased prominently in publications such as The New Yorker, may find the show’s segments—many of which have already appeared in his past works—more enjoyable. The cast, featuring comedic heavyweights like John Mulaney, Fred Armisen, Renée Elise Goldsberry, and Richard Kind, adeptly delivers Rich’s whimsical tales, sparking a mix of laughter and tenderness.

This ensemble is not static; the cast rotates throughout the run, meaning you could catch a different combination of talent on subsequent visits. Starting December 30, Chloe Fineman will step in for Goldsberry, with Lin-Manuel Miranda and Andrew Rannells making their appearances on January 14, alongside Nick Kroll, Mulaney’s long-time comedic partner. This rotating cast adds an element of surprise to each performance, reminiscent of a casual game of musical chairs.

Thematic Depth versus Ticket Prices

However, the experience’s charming qualities can't fully compensate for its hefty ticket prices. With orchestral seats costing a pretty penny, theatergoers might feel a pinch upon seeing the bill. Yet amidst the chuckles, Mulaney reminds us of the show’s core sentiment: “the most important part of life is who we share it with.” This theme runs throughout the performance, leading to tear-jerking moments alongside the laughs.

Comedic Innovation

Rich’s comedic brilliance shines when he twists typical narratives into fresh and absurd premises. For instance, in one sketch, pirates (played by Mulaney and Armisen) are humorously illiterate, requiring the help of a tiny stowaway (Goldsberry) to read treasure maps, while another features Mulaney as a toddler detective on a quest to retrieve a missing toy for his baby sister. These inventive spins reveal Rich’s talent for generating humor from unlikely scenarios.

Performers’ Roles and Direction

While some sketches fall flat and feel overly reliant on narration, Mulaney's mastery in delivering his lines brings a unique energy to the performance. His precision and rhythm resonate, but there are moments of frustration as talented actors like Goldsberry and Kind seem underutilized, adapting to a more stationary role while the men take on more dynamic characters.

Under the direction of Alex Timbers, known for his work on Mulaney's Netflix special and other Broadway hits, the production features a visually appealing set designed by David Korins, combining bare-brick walls with elegant chandeliers to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. During interludes, a band led by the married couple, the Bengsons, plays delightful music, enhancing the theatrical experience with melodies from Stephin Merritt and the Magnetic Fields—one of Rich’s favorite bands.

Overall Impression

Ultimately, while "All In" delivers an enjoyable night of light-hearted fun, it leaves audiences with the sense that they are witnessing high-octane performances operating at merely a fraction of their potential. Like a sports car stuck in traffic, the cast demonstrates palpable talent, but the material doesn’t always allow them to break free and accelerate creatively.

Show Information

"All In: Comedy About Love" runs through February 16 at the Hudson Theater in Manhattan. For tickets and more information, visit allinbroadway.com. Running Time: 1 hour 30 minutes.