Tony-nominated actress Betsy Wolfe stars as Joy Mangano in “Joy: A New True Musical,” which is being performed at the Laura Pels Theatre in New York City.
Ken Davenport wrote the book with music and lyrics by AnnMarie Milazzo. Lorin Latarro eloquently directed it, while Joshua Bergasse choreographed it.
This musical is based on the true story of Joy Mangano, the inventor behind the Miracle Mop.
Mangano’s story and motivational journey was also told in the 2015 film “Joy” for which Jennifer Lawrence received a “Best Actress” Oscar nomination, and it now comes to life on the Off-Broadway stage.
This is a compelling story of a woman who was able to overcome the trials and tribulations that life throws at her… being a single mother, fiscal burdens, to forming her own business, to dealing with her difficult parents, yet she is able to triumph.
Betsy Wolfe embodies Joy’s indomitable spirit, resilience, and perspicacity. Wolfe will inspire people want to learn more about the real Joy Mangano after seeing this Off-Broadway musical.
Jill Abramovitz is a revelation as Joy’s mother while Honor Blue Savage gives an endearing performance as Joy’s daughter Christie.
Brandon Espinoza charms as her ex-husband Tony while Adam Grupper is convincing as her grumpy father Rudy. In fact, everybody in the cast is noteworthy in their own right.
The Verdict
Overall, “Joy: A New True Musical” is a heart-warming Off-Broadway show. It is lighthearted, entertaining, and thoroughly uplifting. It is the feel-good escapism we all need in this day and age.
As director, Lorin Latarro does an exceptional joy balancing the levity of the project along with the emotional and melancholic moments.
Strong performances led by Betsy Wolfe give this musical its beating heart, and compliments to Ken Davenport for writing such a resonant script, which is rich in character development and allows each cast member to shine.
This is a show that belongs on Broadway, and it will make people cry for “joy” in the end while also putting smiles on people’s faces. It garners 4.5 out of 5 stars.
To learn more about “Joy: A New True Musical,” visit its official website.
