Few musicals have humor, heart, and happiness wrapped in music that is catchy and memorable….one of those is David Yazbek and Terrence McNally’s ‘Full Monty!’ With a lot of love in tow, the show is filled with surprises and uplifting human resilience. TheatreLab Dayton‘s version is quite timely. The story is of six unemployed steelworkers in New York, facing economic troubles, who decide to give stripping a try…for the money! Along the way, these men and their loved ones must face their inner demons and social norms. Through their journey, and heading to the ‘Full Monty‘ (Yes, the men come through with their ‘tease’ to bring the title to life,) the men learn much about themselves and the real definition of what it means to be a ‘man!’
TheatreLab has brought some strong talent to the stage for this version. The 6 men are so well suited for their roles. Zach King plays Jerry with full heart and strong vocals, as a man doing his best; Dustin Evans’ take on Dave is real and relatable; Aaron Hill, as the sweet mama’s boy Malcolm, is perfectly cast; John Woll‘s deep voice and solid persona fit well with his portrayal of Harold; Joshua Hughes, a TheatreLab staple, once again lights up the stage with his comedic timing; and Tim Wilson‘s smooth, assured ‘Horse’ provides the quintessential ‘Big Black Man.’ 
The show is taking place at the Dayton Convention Center, which has gone through some renovations. The stage is perfect for the factory feel, and the orchestra fits nicely to bring the score to life. The show is Directed by Philip Drennen and the Stage Manager is Jennifer Barnaba. There are definitely some stand-out performances and numbers provided by the ladies in the show. Katie Pees brings a ton of energy to ‘Life with Harold,’ and the women don’t hold back on ‘Women’s World.’
Probably the moment that will provide the sweetest of reactions will be Aaron Hill‘s heart-tugging ‘You Walk with Me’….kleenex worthy! Josh Stucky, once again playing a woman, adds levity to the tale with ‘Jeanette’s ShowBiz Number.‘ And of course, the boys bring it home with the giddy ending ‘Let it Go!’
The show is FUN. It really is….and we all need joy about now. Leave politics, angst, and ugliness at the door. Join the boys in Buffalo as they bear all….both physically and emotionally!
The show is April 18 – 19, 2025.
For tickets…go to
