‘The Family Album’ Is Cute and Catchy but Somewhat Predictable

A family drama always makes for good entertainment, and a musical even more so. La Jolla Playhouse’s current production of “The Family Album,” directed by Jess McLeod, blends heart, humor and song in this world premiere.

Mia (Aury Krebs) has always felt like the black sheep of her family. In the shadow of her finance-driven brother, Daniel (Marc delaCruz), and dermatologist sister, Charlotte (Courtney Reed), Mia strives to be a musician by any means possible. She leaves her family to travel and play small venues in an attempt to get her art out to the world. After their mother, Sylvia (Jodi Long), is in an accident, Mia returns to face them all, including her dad, Henry (Paul Nakauchi). It is tense, emotional and healing all at once.

“The Family Album” features music and lyrics by MILCK (aka Connie K. Lim, who also conceived the story) and AG (aka Andrianne Gonzales). While the music is very catchy, some of it sounds very similar, which gets repetitive. Standout, fun numbers include “Golden Child” and “Dopamine Lottery.” The song “Dot Dot Dot Deleting” tries to tell a text conversation through song, but misses the mark in its execution. The show’s finale, “Oh Mother,” is a very sweet number that really brings everything together in a satisfying conclusion.

When it comes to the music, Aury Krebs is a powerhouse of a performer. She sings the hell out of Mia’s songs with a beautiful, strong voice that dominates the show in the best way. All of the actors nail their numbers, making the musical tight and polished. The acting is top-notch from everyone involved.

The story falters in its emotional beats. Throughout the show, secrets are revealed, and new information comes to light. It can all be seen from a mile away, making the show predictable and somewhat uninteresting at times.

The clever vinyl-record floor and set were designed by Wilson Chin, complemented well by Amanda Zieve’s fun and engaging lighting design. Hahnji Jang designed the costumes, and Justin Stasiw did sound design.

This new musical was commissioned by La Jolla Playhouse, and while it is a tight, well-put-together show, the story’s emotional moments could use a little more work.

“The Family Album” runs until August 23 in the Potiker Theatre at La Jolla Playhouse.