The thought of some out-of-work and, frankly, out-of-shape steelworkers attempting to become male strippers may not sound so appealing in real life, but with the opening of American Musical Theatre of San Jose’s hilarious production of  The Full Monty (Sept 16-28), you’ll enjoy it from beginning to end. 

Based on the British hit movie of the same name, The Full Monty is an exuberant, feel-good comedy about a group of down-and-out Buffalo, New York steelworkers, whose career prospects and bank accounts start shrinking after getting laid off. When their wives go wild for a male strip troupe that sweeps into town, the men decide to put on their own show to raise some bucks!

At the center of the story is Jerry, whose ex-wife threatens to take away visitation rights with their son if he doesn’t catch up on his child-support payments. Determined to come up with the money, he recruits his friends, the chubby Dave, and the good-hearted Ethan and Malcolm. They recruit their former boss, Harold, and the grizzled “Horse” and begin rehearsals.

Bent on becoming the best strippers Buffalo has ever seen, they struggle to overcome their insecurities and anxieties, in the process renewing their sense of self-esteem and discovering the true meaning of friendship.

The Broadway version of the highly successful movie debuted in 2000, and has since enjoyed runaway success, thanks to its heartwarming libretto by Terrence McNally and boisterous musical score by David Yazbek, which draws influences from funk, rock, swing, jazz and Latin. The lyrics are also laden with pop-culture references and bawdy humor, making the musical irresistible for men and women alike.

While there are mature themes and adult language, this production is a rollicking show that will leave you rolling in the aisles. –Stephanie Soong

Where:

San Jose Center for Performing Arts, 255 Almaden Blvd.

When:

Sept 16-28:  Tues-Fri, 8pm; Sat, 2 & 8pm; Sun, 1 & 6:30pm

Info/Tickets:
888/455-SHOW; www.amtsj.org