Wow!

No one writes contemporary musical romcoms better than Joshua Salzman and Ryan Cunningham, proof positive of which can be savored in Next Thing You Know...now being given a terrific West Coast Premiere by Chromolume Theatre Company.

It’s hard to imagine a finer showcase for 20something actor-singers than Next Thing You Know, and Chromolume's cast more than fill the bill.

[Brad] Simanski gives Darren a guy-next-door charm, a bit of the dork, and some fabulous pipes to make for a thoroughly winning lead performance opposite [Tara] Shoemaker's vivacious (and equally vocally blessed) Waverly.

The golden-voiced [Alex] Allred's natural likeability makes him a terrific choice to play Luke.

As for [Maya] Sayre, expect big things ahead from the petite stunner whose terrific comedic chops and impressive power pipes make her 'one to watch.'

Shen Heckel makes a noteworthy directorial debut, both in the performances he has elicited and in the imaginative use of his carefully-detailed multi-locale NYC set (bar, office, and assorted apartments) lit by Richard Fong with professional flair.

L.A. costume design star Michael Mullen provides each character with multiple just-right outfits.

Sound designer James Esposito gets snaps for one of Next Thing You Know's cleverest sequences.

Musical director Emily Cohn earns high marks both for cast vocals and for piano accompaniment.

Next Thing You Know, a romantic roundelay that offers its own brand of delights [welcomes] Chromolume Theatre back with a mix of New York City magic and pizzazz.

Steven Stanley, StageSceneLA

Intimate theater is thriving all over Los Angeles and the Chromolume Theatre is one of the quintessential hot spots to take in a show with a mere fifty strangers.

Not only does this chamber musical fit nicely in the space, but the direction and scenic design by Shen Heckel adds a layer familiarity as he creates moments reminiscent of the sitcom How I Met Your Mother.

Tara Shoemaker is a strong Waverly...her bold voice shines in 'Don't Say Another Word' and 'I Wish There Were A Reason.'

Maya Sayre is the spunky Lisa who's fruity and expressive voices provides beautiful song moments in 'Manhattan Bridge,' and 'You Can't Be Everything You Want.'

Brad Simanski (Darren) is a hilarious and deep, he’s the little guy with so much to give in all of his scenes and songs...

[Alex] Allred takes up the whole stage in every scene, his robust and honeyed voice are supreme in 'Morning After Omelet,' 'The Way To Get A Girl' and 'And I Breathe'.

Emily Cohn has put together a remarkable cast who handles this contemporary score with ease and expression. She masterfully leads this production from the piano, keeping up with all the action on stage and following her singers every move.

With the [Shen] Heckel's smart direction and the performances by the cast you are in for an evening of youthful entertainment.

Ryan Leuvano, Tin Pan LA

Directed by Shen Heckel with musical direction by Emily Cohn, 'Next Thing You Know' hails a new, cutting edge development in the evolution of significant relationship musicals and shouldn't be missed!

Cunningham's fast-moving script is consistently sharp, clever, and reassuring...

Tara Shoemaker laudably succeeds in the potentially tricky role of the apty named Waverly.

[Brad] Simanski demonstrates terrific emotional depth.

Maya Sayre [is] a sultry cross between Judy Collins, Joan Baez and Edith Piaf.

As Luke, Alex Allred uses his wholesome good looks to great advantage, presenting a smooth and sexy vibe such as the likes of Jimmy Stewart or Tobey McGuire would were either of them complete womanizing playboys!

Hung Over is also a vibrant group effort and ranks among the most memorable in the show's score.

Here's a future classic musical that speaks to a whole new generation of theater-lovers and is the perfect antidote to those larger, spashier special-effects extravaganzas so common of late.

Leo Buck, Buck-Ing Trends