Director's Notes

The Wedding Singer premiered on Broadway in 2006. Based on the 1998 film starring Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore, the story is a romantic comedy, the first of several collaborations between the two performers. The musical was nominated for five Tony Awards and went on to have successful tours in the U.S. and U.K.

The stage adaptation is a classical musical comedy. A goofy, hopeless romantic who sings at weddings meets a likable girl next door who is a caterer at wedding venues. What makes both the movie and musical so fun is the way the story is lovingly wrapped in a cocoon of 1980s pop culture. There are many romantic, musical comedies in this world. But few so enthusiastically attach themselves to an era like this musical. Many films and theatrical pieces avoid pop culture references, knowing it gives them a shorter shelf life in the performative zeitgeist. But this musical ran the other way, embracing a bygone era known for its tacky colors, silly clothes, outlandish hair and unique style.

This is a silly, fun story. But it’s got heart. Adam Sandler was known for his screwball comedies before making this film. But it was his performance in The Wedding Singer that elevated his status as a leading man and opened the world of film to him even more. Because while this is a silly show, there is an important love story at its center, which drives the plot forward. For all the jokes, goofy hair, high energy dance numbers, and movie references in this show, the focus is on a love story between two likable characters who go through all the classic trials and tribulations of a romantic comedy before they finally find happiness.

Producing a show like this takes a village. And I am lucky that my village is awash with talented, hard-working individuals. I am thankful to the crew backstage, in both shops and in the control booth, who do the unseen work to make this show happen. This particular production is quite technically involved, and without their herculean effort, we would not be here with you tonight. I am thankful to the department, designers, creative team and all the others who worked so hard to put this show together. And finally, I am especially thankful for this cast. Their talent, energy, and infectious camaraderie made this process a joy to be a part of and is the secret ingredient to this production’s magic. I hope you enjoy this show as much as we have enjoyed working on it. Please enjoy The Wedding Singer.

--Tom Alsip