TEETH - New World Stages (09/11/24)

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There are unhinged musicals, and then there’s this new adaptation of the 2007 horror film “Teeth”, which brings a whole new meaning to the phrase “mad as a bag of dicks”, the specific turn of phrase, indeed, directly in reference to exactly what you think it is for anyone familiar with the source material. For those whom may never heard of this bizarre story, strap in because it’s gonna be a wild ride, and you certainly don’t want to bring your kids to this one!

I should contextualise what you’ve just read, and I fear there’s no delicate way of doing this: Teeth is a tale of a girl with a pretty…unique reproductive system, having sported a “vaginal dental defence mechanism” (put mildly) since birth, interactions with which have ranged from a nip of the finger to full on castration; never before has the term “abandon hope all ye who enter here” been so apt.

The cast of Teeth (credit: Chelcie Parry)

Directed by Sarah Benson, this musical certainly doesn’t do things in half measures, presented initially as a religious satire, it evolves into a story of female empowerment and autonomous reclamation, one certainly wouldn’t be remiss in stating the timing of this musical couldn’t be better. But also with the narrative evolution comes a gradual but drastic tonal shift, as the squeaky clean image initially presented descends into one of chaos, blood, fire, very few clothes, and an abundance of plastic penises. Adam Rigg should be praised highly for his scenic design, especially the moment in the finale that had me laughing out loud.

The score and lyrics by Anna K Jacobs and Michael R Jackson respectively is packed with fun, toe-tapping rock tunes, the rousing anthem “Dentata” in particular a hugely visceral moment. This is all performed terrifically by the company and band, Alyse Alan Louis gives a delightfully graded performance as Dawn, perfectly encapsulating the character’s descent into mania, very much reminiscent of Lizzie Borden.

Alyse Alan Louis (credit: Valerie Terranova)

Andy Karl is a maverick, his take on a youth pastor hilariously caricaturish, and his portrayal of OB/GYN wonderfully silly and camp, and as ever providing an excellent vocal performance. The promise girls were all brilliant as well, each afforded chances to shine individually, and all absolute rockstars in the more upbeat rock songs, as ensemble vocals were utterly dazzling. This insane, self confessed "coming-of-RAGE" comedy musical is campy, over-the-top, and absolutely batshit crazy, and I was 100% along for the ride!

★★★★★

"Teeth" plays at New York's New World Stages until the 5th of January.