“Something Special, Indeed!”: Rave Reviews Roll In for Something Rotten! at the Rose Center Theater
- Rose Center Theater
- Jul 10
- 2 min read
The reviews are in — and they’re anything but rotten.
Something Rotten!, now playing at the Rose Center Theater through July 20, has officially taken Orange County by storm with its infectious energy, show-stopping choreography, and laugh-out-loud comedy. In a glowing review for Orange County News, critic Angela Hatcher calls the production “an irresistible feast of uncontrollable giddiness” and playfully suggests it be renamed Something Special, Indeed!
Set in the 1590s, Something Rotten! follows two playwright brothers, Nick and Nigel Bottom, as they attempt to outshine their rival — none other than the swaggering, leather-clad “rock star” himself, William Shakespeare. What unfolds is a riotous journey through Elizabethan absurdity, complete with tap-dancing eggs, a meddling soothsayer, and the invention of an entirely new art form: the musical.
With Director and Musical Director Tim Nelson at the helm, the production is “anything but dated,” says Hatcher, especially for self-proclaimed theater nerds who will delight in the show’s countless musical references, meta-theatrical gags, and inside jokes.
Choreographers Jennifer Simpson-Matthews and Diane Makas deliver bold, Broadway-caliber dance numbers, with dazzling full-company tap sequences that earned audible gasps from opening night audiences. Supporting this is a stunning technical design by Chris Caputo (lighting, scenic direction), pitch-perfect Elizabethan costumes by Carole Zelinger, and the seamless work of Production Manager Sherre Titus.
But what truly brings the show to life is its extraordinary cast.
Hatcher singles out Jeremy Kie Vance (Nigel) for his “beautifully sensuous voice,” Jacob Phelen (Nick) for his commanding vocals, and Brennan Eckberg (Shakespeare) for fully embracing his “Elvis-esque” magnetism. Chris Caputo (Nostradamus), Tawni Bridenball (Bea), and Olivia Aniceto (Portia) are praised for their comedic flair, emotional depth, and standout musical performances. “Each cast member plays his or her role with animating flair and skill,” Hatcher notes — and that chemistry shines in every scene.
The ensemble is rounded out by crowd favorites Tom Orr (Shylock), Randall J. Goddard (Lord Clapham), Dr. David Hubbard (Sir Francis Bacon), and Jeff Mempin (Master of the Justice), all of whom contribute to the riotous fun and fast-paced hilarity that define the production.
The verdict? Something Rotten! is the comedy musical Orange County didn’t know it needed — and it’s packing the house with laughter, energy, and nonstop entertainment.
Experience the Show Everyone’s Raving About
With only a few weekends left, now’s the time to see what all the buzz is about. Whether you’re a lifelong theater fan or just looking for a night of outrageous fun, Something Rotten! delivers big laughs, bold performances, and a whole lot of heart.
Performances run through July 20
Rose Center Theater
14140 All American Way, Westminster, CA
Tickets available now at www.rosecentertheater.com/something-rotten
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