Seeing “I’m Getting My Act Together and Taking It on the Road” is like stepping into a hot-tub time machine. Under Kathleen Marshall’s direction, this Encores! Off-Center presentation takes us back to a hippie-funky, proudly feminist 1978. The men sport period facial hair, and the whole cast is in picture-perfect duds: Its lead, the fabulous Renée Elise Goldsberry (“Good People,” TV’s “The Good Wife”), struts around in a brown leather blazer and flared pants.
The musical’s story is just as vintage, a heartfelt celebration of a woman’s liberation that seems dated yet honest. It clearly resonated with composer Nancy Ford and book writer/lyricist Gretchen Cryer — Jon’s mom — who also originated the role of Heather (Goldsberry), an actress preparing for a string of concerts.
While running through her set list with her band and backup singers (Christina Sajous and Jennifer Sanchez), Heather tries to resolve creative differences with her interfering manager, Joe.
He’s a caricature of a male chauvinist pig, but Frederick Weller — looking like the loser compadre in a Burt Reynolds movie — gives him a goofy, laid-back vibe that keeps Joe from being completely awful.
As if the pressure of those upcoming performances wasn’t enough, Heather’s turning 39. “Well, happy birthday anyway,” Joe says.
“Act” was a big off-Broadway hit way back when, but few remember it today. It’s heavy-handed at times, but the wonderful score is packed with tuneful pop-rockers (“Natural High”) and aching ballads (“Old Friend”) that bear the influence of Carole King and Paul Williams.
The role of Heather also makes for a great showcase, since she’s always onstage and sings most of the songs. The charismatic Goldsberry, effortlessly going from sexy confidence to searching vulnerability and boiling frustration — that Joe is just impossible! — makes the most of the opportunity to play her.
Whatever the decade she’s in becomes irrelevant: This performance is timeless.