Aberdeen was in for a real treat with Hallirackit Theatre’s homecoming production of tick, tick…BOOM! exploding onto the Lemon Tree stage last night! Following a successful Fringe Run last year it only felt right that Hallirackit brought this exciting new production to a home audience.
Tick, tick… BOOM! is all about the creative struggle and all the things we sacrifice to “make it”. We meet Jonathan Larson- a 29 year old aspiring composer on the verge of turning 30. Throughout this heartfelt story Jonathan grapples with career pressure, a failing musical and his own personal life/relationships. As time keeps ticking Jonathan is left questioning what he is doing with his life as the “tick, booms” of time run out.
As the audience entered the auditorium we were greeted by a simplistic set which was brought to life by the warm twinkle of fairy lights cascading and a string that stretched from one end of the stage to the other – depicting ideas and pictures which really allowed the audience to feel part of Jonathan’s creative space. The band that consisted of the very talented Mikey Innes, Kieran Shields, Ben Torrie and Nick Jolly who were placed directly behind the set which really added to the intimate atmosphere created. The band didn’t feel out of place and really added to the whole experience especially during the more intimate musical numbers throughout the show.
Kenneth Lypka who played Jon was a perfect fit for this role. Through his fast paced speeches to his eccentric body movements throughout, you truly feel the man is a walking time-bomb. He took to the role with ease and managed to keep the audience with him in every step of his journey and while we root for him.
Fiona Crichton who portrays Susan (Jon’s Girlfriend) manages to balance warmth and compassion with no nonsense perfectly. Her powerhouse vocals really brought the connection between Susan and Jon closer.
Ethan Lumsden brought the energy by portraying Michael, Jon’s best friend. The friendship they have onstage was a joy to watch. Ethan moved the audience with his emotional and powerful vocals showing a more vulnerable side to his fun loving character.
Sarah Smith, who takes on Lucy along with a wide range of other characters, shines in every moment she’s on stage. Her reactions feel truthful and engaging as she draws the audience in. On top of that, her stunning vocals in ‘Come To Your Senses’ alongside Fiona Crichton, were an absolute highlight of the evening – a real treat that lifted the whole production.
Last but certainly not least Conor McGarry is David along with another very long list of ensemble characters! His physical comedy and versatile accents never failed to make the whole audience laugh out loud! He throws himself into every character with passion and gives it 100% each time! Comedy Gold!
I absolutely loved this production of Tick, Tick..BOOM! The team, lead by Hannah Cook, supported by MD Mikey Innes and Choreographer Jennifer Lypka. This team never fails to keep the energy and despite run time hitting 95 minutes without an interval (impressive I know!) the fun never stops and most importantly the energy never drops! Each character is given their moment to shine but in the most heartwarming and sincere way.
I am very much looking forward to seeing what Hallirackit does next. From one creative to another it is a joy to see the Aberdeen theatre thrive with new ideas and productions! The message behind this piece still rings true – keep going, do that thing that brings you joy and pursue that dream with all your heart.
tick, tick… BOOM! is running at The Lemon Tree from the 21st to the 23rd August 2025, however there’s no chance of getting tickets as the whole run has sold out!
Theatre Scotland 
Leave a comment