Best little musical at Tarleton

Whether it’s a musical, children’s show, or a one act play, Tarleton State University Theatre has never disappointed me. I had the pleasure of being welcomed into a dress rehearsal for the upcoming “Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” and once again walked away with a smile.

“Best Little Whorehouse” is not an easy musical to tackle – the costumes are over the top, the makeup and hair are higher than the Statue of Liberty, and the numbers are challenging for any singer. Somehow, despite its large cast and massive set, the show went off with hardly a hitch – quite a feat for the first dress rehearsal.

The set for this show is really something to see. The cast runs up and down multiple staircases, several rooms and three different locations, making use of every single piece of scenery. The costumes are fantastic, with gorgeous gowns and cowboy boots on just about every character. What really stood out to me, however, was the hair and makeup design. Everything feels purposeful, and nothing is so over the top that it’s unbelievable.

My favorite part of the play was, of course, the musical numbers. Most musicals have at least one number that drags on and feels pointless, but every piece in “Best Little Whorehouse” fits in perfectly. From comedic dance routines to soulful, touching ballads, there is no song – or singer – out of place here. The actors show off some surprising vocal talents as well, particularly from Kaylee Carlile and Charlie Anderson as Angel and Ed Earl Dodd, respectively. Smooth and organized set changes bring every number in flawlessly.

The acting is superb, although I’ve come to expect that from Tarleton Theatre. Josh Hensley is hilarious as the malevolent Melvin P. Thorpe, and Emily Trinque shines as the appropriately named Shy. Ashley Morrison is touching and real as Miss Mona, with a few songs that really show off her pipes. Even the extras are incorporated perfectly into the show. There are no sore thumbs or out of place characters – each one has a personality and an individual touch that makes them special.

Over all, I was thoroughly impressed with “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.” Tarleton Theatre has toned down the vulgarity that the original show is famous for, creating a classy – but humorously raunchy – show that is sure to leave the audience pleased. If this is how entertaining the dress rehearsal is, I have no doubt the finished product will be dazzling.

“The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” runs from Wednesday Feb. 27 until Saturday, March 2, 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 for general admission or $5 with a TSU ID. For more information contact the box office at (254) 968-9634.