Toronto’s take on Jagged Little Pill isn’t your typical jukebox musical. Sure, Alanis Morissette‘s razor-sharp anthems are the heart of the show, and they land every punch. From a show-stopping “You Oughta Know” to a hauntingly beautiful “Ironic“, the music seamlessly weaves into the story, adding layers of raw emotion.
The cast is another highlight. Jade McLeod absolutely captivates as Jo, channeling teenage angst and vulnerability with stunning accuracy. Lauren Raines delivers a powerful performance as Mary Jane, the well-meaning but flawed mother.
But Jagged Little Pill goes beyond catchy tunes and strong performances. It tackles tough topics like sexual assault, addiction, and prejudice head-on, and with surprising sensitivity. Overall I was surprised they were able to connect the songs into a consistent narrative.
Looking around the theatre when we sat down I realized that while I was the right age-demographic for this show, I was the wrong gender. Groups of middle-aged women, drinking red wine, and singing at the top of their voices with every song was the zeitgeist of the evening. It was even more contrasted by the fact that for Alyne, Alanis is more akin to say classic rock for me, than anything contemporary with her experience. I was an Alanis fan in the ’90’s and ’00’s, and knew (most) of the songs well but while I can enjoy the angsty rock tone of the music, I’ve moved past that feeling in life now and songs that came at the end of the show like “Thank U” and “You Learn” are connect with me more now.
The script isn’t without flaws. I did feel that a few sections could drag a bit, and some of the songs felt a little shoehorned in. The central themes resonate, but the plot itself can feel predictable at times. Some storylines feel underdeveloped, leaving you wanting a deeper dive into the characters’ struggles. Some people may not have enjoyed the minimalist set design, but I felt that it allowed the focus to stay on the music and acting. There is a scene set in New York that uses sharp red light and silhouettes to create an almost comic-book like view on stage.
Despite these shortcomings, Jagged Little Pill is a powerful and thought-provoking experience. It’s not a flawless masterpiece, but the show’s undeniable strengths – the music, the performances, and the willingness to confront important issues – make it a memorable night at the theatre.
Recommendation: If you’re a fan of Alanis Morissette or looking for a musical that punches hard with both emotion and social commentary, Jagged Little Pill is worth a visit. Just be prepared for a familiar narrative structure with a refreshingly contemporary twist.
