On Dec. 6, the CIBC Theatre in Chicago witnessed the grand opening of the musical sensation, BOOP! Based on Bob Martin’s beloved book and featuring the musical genius of 16-time Grammy Award winner David Foster, and accompanied by Susan Birkenhead’s poetic lyrics, this production promised to be something truly special. Under the guidance of Tony Award-winning director Jerry Mitchell, BOOP! transported its audience into a world delicately balanced between reality and fantasy.
At the heart of this enchanting musical was the captivating performance of Jasmine Amy Rodgers, who brought to life the iconic character of Betty Boop. For over a century, Betty Boop has been a beloved figure, and Rodgers breathed new life into her with a whimsical charm that was simply mesmerizing. Her singing was nothing short of spectacular, with crystal-clear vocals that resonated throughout the theater and left the audience spellbound.
Opposite Rodgers was the immensely talented Angelica Hale, who portrayed Trisha. Hale’s powerful voice was a force to be reckoned with, and she effortlessly belted out every song, filling the stage with her presence — a stark contrast to her petite frame. Her performance added depth and emotion to the production, creating a dynamic synergy with Rodgers’ Betty Boop.
One of the standout aspects of BOOP! was its set design, which seamlessly transitioned the audience from a black-and-white world to a vividly colorful one. This transformation was not only visually stunning but also symbolically meaningful, highlighting the theme of escapism and the power of imagination that runs throughout the musical.
BOOP! is a production that is perfect for the entire family. Its universal appeal, heartwarming characters and seamless blend of music, acting and set design promise to captivate audiences of all ages. With the creative genius of its team — led by Mitchell and the exceptional talents of Rodgers and Hale — BOOP! is poised to take the world by storm.
BOOP! is a must-see musical that offers an escape into a world of enchantment and nostalgia. With its outstanding cast, masterful direction and dazzling production design, it has all the ingredients for a Broadway hit that will leave audiences singing its praises for years to come.
BOOP! is running through Dec. 24 at the CIBC Theatre in Chicago. Click here for tickets.
