Quote of the Day: On the surface, Gutenberg! is a daffy story about two men earnestly pitching their new, mildly factual musical to a live audience while playing all the characters themselves. It’s farcy, irreverent and purposefully chaotic. And, it’s a love letter to musical theater and the artists that bring the art form to life. Tyler Michaels King, director for Gutenberg! the Musical! on stage at Theater Latté Da through May 3, 2026. Performances extended through May 9!

Tom Reed as Doug and Dominic Schiro as Bud in Gutenberg! the Musical! at Theater Latte’ Da, thru 5/3/26. Photo: Dan Norman

Gutenberg! the Musical! is a wild romp on stage. Two friends, Doug and Bud, are pitching their new musical to a live audience and (hopefully) a producer, or two. Tom Reed and Dominic Shiro play the two friends and all the roles in the musical. In an extremely athletic performance, they quickly switch characters, and hats, and give it their all. I felt breathless for them! 

This hilarious two-hander is filled with witty dialogue, numerous pratfalls, comedic precision, and catchy music. Twin Cities Theater Bloggers’ favorite Jason Hansen is the music director and keyboardist. He also gets a few fun lines to start each act of the show. The band interacts some, which makes it fun. Kate Brown is on piano II, Paul Hill on percussion & drums, and Erik Schee is the percussion & drums alternate. The music is fun and upbeat, classic musical flare with a bit of whimsy. 

Tom Reed as Doug and Dominic Schiro as Bud in Gutenberg! the Musical! at Theater Latte’ Da, thru 5/3/26. Photo: Dan Norman

The stage is cleverly designed by Sarah Bahr. It appears sparse, but is filled with hidden gems, and functional elements. Zamora Simmons-Stiles is the costume designer. The actors wear the same clothes throughout, and numerous hats! It must be stressful making sure you’re wearing the right one, or stack in the correct order. Lighting Designer is Grant E. Merges. Lots of mood lighting in this one. I noticed several times where the color changed the background and mood. Sound Designer is Peter Morrow. Many great sound effects in this one, as well, executed with precision timing. 

Tom Reed as Doug and Dominic Schiro as Bud in Gutenberg! the Musical! at Theater Latte’ Da, thru 5/3/26. Photo: Dan Norman

Tyler Michaels King seems like the perfect choice as director for this fast-paced comedic show. His background in improv and comedy helped shape each line and action. Timing is everything in comedy, and this production is a masterpiece.

You can catch this wonderfully hilarious show Gutenberg! the Musical! at Theatre Latté Da through May 3, 2026. Another hit for one of the Twin Cities Theater Bloggers’ favorite theaters. Bravo! Bravo! Bravo!

*Performances extended through May 9!

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: What do you admire most about comedy and the people who create it?