Review: 'SpongeBob Musical' Brings Wonder, Spectacle to the Stage

There’s one thing for certain about “The SpongeBob Musical” now playing at Chicago’s Oriental Theatre: kids are going to go nuts for it.

Actually, that’s not true. There are a lot of certainties for “SpongeBob.” I’m certain you’ll be wowed by the outstanding visuals, the amazing costumes, the toe-tapping songs (written by some of today’s hottest artists), the gorgeous sets and the sheer spectacle of it.

Sign up for the Patch newsletter

And that’s probably what “SpongeBob” does best - spectacle. But it’s not done gratuitously or without reason. There’s a purpose and a story behind it, namely everyone’s favorite sponge trying to save Bikini Bottom from imminent destruction. When your very existence is at risk, you need to find a way to show off what you're fighting for.

Although there are plenty of adults who love “SpongeBob,” the show is aimed for kids, at least in terms of the humor. There were a few jokes here and there adults could chuckle at, but it’s the kids who will be laughing the loudest.

Having only seen bits and pieces of the TV show, I had a very, very basic understanding of who SpongeBob is and the world he inhabits. Fortunately, you don’t need to know a lot going in. I’m sure there were some inside jokes that went over my head, but it didn’t detract from the experience. If anything, I came away wanting to know more about the source material.

Now, let’s get to the songs. It’s always hard to get a feel for music when you just have the one time to hear it, but “SpongeBob” shines when its supremely talented cast belts out their numbers. Written by the likes of David Bowie, Cyndi Lauper, The Flaming Lips and John Legend, just to name a few, “SpongeBob” has pulled out all the stops in creating a soundtrack that might just replace “Frozen” as your child’s (or your) go-to album. Let’s hope an official release is imminent.

Even if “SpongeBob” isn’t your thing, the show is worth checking out for how beautiful it looks. Never have I seen so many vibrant colors filling a stage. It’s a wonder to behold, like looking at some beautiful coral reef under the sea. That was obviously the intent and it was done without flaw.

Chicago is actually the first stop for “SpongeBob” before it makes its debut on Broadway. Do yourself a favor and see it now before it returns as one of the city’s hottest tickets.

"The SpongeBob Musical" runs through July 10. Tickets are priced between $33 and $100. Visit BroadwayinChicago.com for tickets and more information.