The cast is full of newcomers who are all startlingly talented as actors, singers and dancers--the characters all spring wonderfully to life in their capable hands. Meanwhile, Graff's writing and direction deftly balance the wacky humour and one-line zingers with the more powerful poignant moments, including more than one scene that's supercharged with cathartic emotion. Each character has his or her own story arc, and while it's a bit all-encompassing in its approach (and more than a little symbolic!), the film is thoroughly engaging, hilarious and moving, even when it takes a misstep here and there, most notably the anticlimactic epilogue ... which is followed by another whopping production number. And it's these high-energy musical pieces that make the film memorable--and give it cult movie value. This is the kind of film you can watch over and over again on several levels, especially as you mine the script for knowing jokes about the theatre (it's packed with them). Yes, these kids are freaks. But they don't need normalcy ... they need fame!

Tracy Drogalus Dzmura, Mayfield Heights OH: "This production is so captivating that you forget it is an independent film! A real 'feel good' piece bulging with immense talent. The character Vlad is such a hunk – I’m sure we will see him in more movies to come!" (24.Aug.03)

Richard Armstrong, Arlington TX: "Awesome! Saw the movie and downright loved it. Couldn't find the horribly bad side to this movie; sure you have the alcholic director, but what theatre doesn't have a director that's a little 'off' now and again. Delightfully uplifting and makes you realize that you should 'come out and play the game' ... You shouldn't just go through life ho-hum, but do something that you can put your heart, soul and essence into. It's always worth it, no matter how little you think it matters - it's worth it!" (27.Aug.03)

John, Cali: "Let me tell ya, it's rare I come home singing and dancing from the theatre and pray that my world will suddenly become a technicolor dream, but that's what I did when I came home. This story of those who don't fit in offstage but crave the onstage was strong, but still had some kinks and quirks that would have worked better. Vlad was reminiscent of Wahlberg in Boogie Nights, hence the numerous refrences, and the depth of the 'is he or is he not' plotline worked perfectly at the end. Dee should have had more of a storyline, my only complaint. Give me the stage, don't give me the blues, just hand me my dancin shoes." (9.Oct.04)

Carlos, net: "I just loved it. In fact, it is my favorite movie of all time! The story is so relevant to my life and everytime I see it again and again it makes me feel awesome. some of the acting was not excellent, but most of it was great. The beautiful music, played by very talented young people, touched me and enhanced the theme greatly. Thank you Todd Graff - you changed my life!" (7.Jan.05)