Wild Women of Planet Wongo NYC Reviews and Tickets

"Amanda Nicholas and the Wongette ensemble permeate so much energy and fun into the space you can’t help but join in. The story itself is corny and predictable at best, but if this is meant to pay homage to those early sci-fi films then Budick, Maches, and Ogrin have nailed it. Their music and lyrics provide the perfect mash-up of kitsch meets catchy '60s tunes...What makes 'Planet Wongo' truly unique, however, is David Rigano’s direction to make the experience naturally immersive."
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"An elongated 'SNL' sketch...If you don’t drink, aren’t into 'Mystery Science Theater 3000,' and the thought of being part of the show gives you hives, skip this one...The problem here is that a parody or spoof is supposed to skewer and turn upside down familiar tropes...The topic is ripe for it and it could have added a modern sensibility, a lot of laughs, and a thoughtful twist to an otherwise meatless show...You find yourself, even sometimes despite your better judgement, having a good time."
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"This delightful romp wields zany charm and a healthy dose of good old-fashioned escapism...'Wongo’s' biggest asset is its wonderful ensemble cast...All of the women are great comediennes...Rigano’s directing is wise, especially through encouraging his Wongettes to operate as a unit. The result is goofy in the best of ways...This production is sincere, light, and best of all, good spirited."
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"'Wild Women of Planet Wongo' lives up to the fun title indeed!...If you’re super sensitive to the whole feminism movement, it might not be the show for you. But the music sure is catchy. All of the actors did a fantastic job with the songs and choreography, especially in such a small space...There is no serious plot or heavy demeanor here. Go, let your hair down, dance with a stranger, drink an unknown concoction, and enjoy the movement that is immersive theater."
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"It’s a hard sell for anyone who is not a fan of the genre like myself, but by the end of the night, I was all too happy to join in the Wongo Wuau with the whole crew…As someone who is very picky with interactive theater and musicals, I was surprised by how much fun I had. It’s a real testament to old-school sci-fi storytelling...The music is so catchy I guarantee by the end you’ll be doing the Wongo Wuau just like the rest of us…Across the board, everyone’s vocals were top-notch.”
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"The play has a ton of energy with lots of catchy tunes and amusing dancing. (Wongette Jenna Marcello especially had me in stitches). There are also opportunities for audience participation if you’re so inclined. Bring a Bumble date, and see how weird they’re willing to get. If they’re up for this, they’re probably a keeper."
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“The laughs are broad in this ‘Mystery Science Theatre’ meets ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ original musical, growing from titters in the beginning to belly laughs by the end…The energy of the performers, playing off the audience, means a different show every night…The creative journey of 'Wild Women of Planet Wongo' adds to its uniqueness – as the audience helps to inform what comes next for this clever piece of theatre.”
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“A fun, whimsical, funny and interactive show…The overall show is a bit predicable and corny in itself, but that is not to say that it doesn’t hold your attention…If you are looking for fancy or engaging, this is not for you. This is for those who enjoy having a few drinks while enjoying a more relaxed, off-the-wall and wild experience...The zingers were playful and delightful. Bring a friend and enjoy a night of unexpected thrills.”
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“If you’re a fan of science fiction, immersive theater, drinks, and hilarity, ‘Wongo’ is an experience worth adding to your life. While the space was a little tight for the interactive performance, it did lend to a cozy atmosphere…The cast did a splendid job in working with the space and engaging with the theatergoers…'Wongo' is lighthearted fun and immensely entertaining for those looking to have a break from the normality of everyday life. You’ll laugh a lot.”
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"Despite the small space, the crew is able to manipulate it well to provide an unique experience...Although much is done with the space, there are a few things that could make a more immersive experience...But the musical makes up for this with several interesting ways that allow for audience interaction...The actors and actresses deserve much praise as well as they are fast on improvisation when it comes to dealing with hecklers...A fun and wacky show for those with an open mind."
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"The thin, predictable book ends happily, with painless, derivative 'Rocky Horror'-type songs that bounce but seem dated in 2015...But the entire cast — including the actresses playing the Wongettes, some just out of college — is unstinting with its energy and enthusiasm."
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"In contrast with the show's shoestring budget, the music is surprisingly memorable...The fun of interactive theater is the audience participation, and 'Wongo' succeeds in that department. Director Rigano clearly prioritized a fun time. If drinks, dancing and music are your thing, 'Wild Women of Planet Wongo' will not disappoint."
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"The show is part dance-party, with inventive, perky choreography and opportunity for audience participation. Directed with flavorful energy and precise pacing, the wacky story is just the framework for gracefully goofy performances by a solid cast that features some fine voices, and for clever, fun songs that tap into the spirit of the ’60s."
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"It's great fun to interact with the Amazonian Wongo girls and drink Wongotinis made fresh at the bar. The book is witty, sexy and very feel good. (The Wongotinis help with that, too). The cast is joyful and lovingly directed by David Rigano."
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