Jagged Little Pill uses iconic songs to tell a cautionary tale

For children of the 90s, the angst, anger, and audio memories of a grunge-filled decade have mellowed over the decades. Even though some of those nostalgic moments have reappeared in current pop culture, the reality is that some of those musical themes resonate in today’s world. In the musical Jagged Little Pill, the interplay of familiar songs and a family’s complicated life is a story that many people know too well.

Jukebox musicals appeal to a wide audience. While no one suggests that the audience sings along during the big ensemble number, the familiar tune is a catalyst for people to head to the theater. Even though those songs might have a deep personal connection, the new interplay into a fictional story breathes new life into the listening experience.

With Jagged Little Pill, the Alanis Morissette songs are twisted and turned into a complicated plot by Diablo Cody. Woven into each character’s journey are topics that continue to plague young and old. From women’s rights to opioid abuse, the characters shine a light on topics that many people might want to keep in the shadows.

Jagged Little Pill tells the story of the Healy Family. While the seemingly perfect mom, MJ, might want to portray the iconic Christmas card image, home life is much messier. From an unhappy marriage to her struggles with opioids, the reality is that images can be carefully crafted, yet hide the truth.

Played by Julie Reiber, MJ captures that dichotomy that many moms know well. Whether it is the woman who remembers lamenting about a broken heart when first hearing that Alanis Morissette power ballad or the women who is competing with all the other swim moms, people can relate. Reiber has the audience laughing at one moment and near tears the next. Her voice has the power and inflection to handle the role wonderfully.

As the Healy’s adopted daughter, Frankie, Teralin Jones, captures the idealism and vulnerability of the character. The youthful enthusiasm is tempered by the uncertainty of standing on her own. The audience wants to see her succeed.

The true gem of the cast is Jo, played by Jade McLeod. During the emotional "You Oughta Know," McLeod has the venom, distrust, and self-awareness to make this song a standout of the night. Even though McLeod might get some of the biggest laughs with her one-liners throughout the performance, it is this musical number that has everyone on their feet.

More importantly, it is the spark that connects all the different storylines. While no one should ever have to experience the scar of being violated or the despair of feeling alone, the reality is that choosing one’s self and not allowing others to hold power over personal decisions is the takeaway from this musical. Humorous moments might break the tension, but people need to be unafraid to confront difficult conversations.

In the end, Jagged Little Pill is a night of theater that will have people thinking long after the curtain falls. Even if they might be thanking the creators for bringing these favorite songs to the stage, the learning moments far outweigh the familiar memories. Audiences might take away that irony is far more complicated than just simple lyrics. But, the real impact is that choosing to raise your hand, be vocal, and invite change can and will make a difference.

The National Tour of Jagged Little Pill is currently playing Dr Phillips Center in Orlando. Additional tour dates run through the Spring.