UB Theatre and Dance unveiled its 2025 rendition of “The Pajama Game” with its opening night on Friday, April 25, at the UB Center for the Arts. As the lights in the glamorous Drama Theatre dimmed, Vernon Hines, played by sophomore musical theatre major Ty Burgess, wasted no time breaking into a musical number, introducing the audience to the world of Sleep-Tite Pajama Factory and rambling about his obsession with time efficiency.
The musical is based on the 1953 novel “7 ½ Cents” by George Abbott and Richard Bissel. It tells the thrilling, comedic love story between the dashing new superintendent Sid Sorokin, played by sophomore theatre performance major Ryan Butler, and the leader of the Union Grievance Committee, Catherine “Babe” Williams, played by junior music theatre major Allinee NeGron. A union strike for a seven and a half cent pay increase at the Sleep-Tite Pajama Factory causes their relationship to become complicated as they stand on opposing sides of the aisle.
A musical is only as good as its directors and performers allow it to be, and the artistry and star power behind the cast’s take on “The Pajama Game” is undeniable. The show is a collaboration of talented and enthusiastic individuals working in tandem.
Director-choreographer James Beaudry’s proficiency at his craft is evident; the production from start to finish was a delight for the eyes and ears. The way the cast moved around on stage was fast-paced, graceful and intentional, a testament to many hours of rehearsal and skillful directing. Music director Matthew Marco, who oversees music direction in all curricular musicals at UB, brings his best work to the table from the orchestra pit once again.
NeGron proves herself to be a vocal powerhouse, enrapturing the audience with her impressive belting. The perfectly placed tremor in her voice whenever Babe Williams is furious or heartbroken makes the character all the more authentic.
Perhaps the biggest highlight of the performance was when junior dance major Erinn Cosgrove and sophomore dance and communications major Grace Rezin took the stage to perform the iconic “Steam Heat” choreography, paying homage to the original stage production and film adaptation.
Butler is the perfect fit for the male lead of the story; the playful vibrato in his voice resonated beautifully throughout the venue, particularly during his performance of the upbeat song, “There Once Was a Man.”
After the first weekend of performances came to a close, Butler recounted, “I’m feeling exhausted but also very grateful.” He aims to provide an even stronger performance on top of his already stellar portrayal of Sid Sorokin, building upon what he learned from the audience reception at the first four shows.
“I’d just like to say that it’s a very unique and enjoyable show. You don’t have to shell out a boatload for tickets, and you’re guaranteed to enjoy the experience,” Butler says.
If you missed the first weekend of shows, “The Pajama Game” still has a second leg of performances happening this weekend from Friday, May 2, through Sunday, May 4. Ticket information can be found here.
American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters will also be provided for the May 3, 2 p.m. public performance.
The arts desk can be reached at arts@ubspectrum.com
