From first dates to forever: Henegar presents 'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change'
Just in time for Valentine's Day, a musical revue that celebrates romance, from awkward first dates to bittersweet anniversaries, lands at the Henegar Center in downtown Melbourne. "I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change" opens Friday, Feb. 14 for a two-week run through Feb. 23.
Written by Joe DiPietro with music by Jimmy Roberts, "I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change" premiered off-Broadway in 1996. Over the course of two acts, the musical showcases a series of vignettes that follow various characters, all played by an ensemble cast of four performers, as they navigate modern romance.
The show unfurls in a series of short sketches linked by musical numbers, some comedic, some sentimental. From the breathless jitters of a first date to the comfortable routines of long-term commitment, the show explores universal truths about love and human connection.
According to director Dominic Del Brocco, you don't need to be in a relationship, or even looking for one, to enjoy the show. Part of its appeal lies in the universal themes of awkwardness, vulnerability and hope.
"Anyone that has been in a relationship will laugh at the references made throughout the show," he said. "[It] does not take itself seriously. Intentionally a campy tongue in cheek series of vignettes, with smaller stories that loop together in skit like format."
While "I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change" is a witty musical revue, some content may be a bit suggestive. Del Brocco cautions that it may be best to leave the youngsters at home, because the show incorporates adult language and subject matter.
"The show is on the heavy side of PG-13, and not intended for young viewers," he said. "Not only the subject matter but the jokes and writing are intended for a mature audience."
The four-person ensemble, which includes Veronica Lowry, Eric Barnum, Erik Narvaez and Laura Powalisz, gets to show off their versatility by diving into multiple characters. The scenes move swiftly, requiring the cast to change pace—and costumes—at lightning speed.
"It is a snap cast of four performers playing over 15 different characters," Del Brocco said. "Not only do they have to move various pieces of furniture, but dozens of rapid quick changes."
Love can be complicated, but it is also part of what makes life so beautifully unpredictable. The show reminds us that if you can't laugh at the messiness of romance, you're missing half the fun.
'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change'
Where:Henegar Center, 625 E. New Haven Ave., Melbourne
When:8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays through Feb. 23
Tickets:$40
Call:321-723-8698
Website: henegarcenter.com
Christina LaFortune is the Entertainment and TGIF Editor at FLORIDA TODAY. Follow her on Facebook at facebook.com/christinalafortune or send her an email at clafortune@floridatoday.com .
Whether you're interested in music, theater, festivals or other local entertainment, FLORIDA TODAY has got you covered. Support local journalism by subscribing at Special Offers - USAToday Network .
This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Modern love, with music: 'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change' at Henegar
