Weekend Theater Tip: See “Are You There God? It’s Me, Karen Carpenter” at Hudson Theatre in Hollywood

A show filled with Carpenters songs like Top of the World, Goodbye to Love, Close to You, Superstar and Only Yesterday?

I’m in!

So glad I headed to the Hudson Theater in Hollywood last night with my pal Justino Aguila, a writer for Billboard, to take in the most terrific show: Are You There God? It’s Me, Karen Carpenter.

It began its three-week run last night.

This is a cult hit based on Judy Blume’s popular coming of age novel. This wonderfully entertaining musical parody lovingly recalls the sights, sentiments and sounds of the 70s with a series of Carpenters songs including – for this current run – Merry Christmas Darling.

The story is about Margaret (Carey Peters) who moves to New York and falls in love with the boy next door (Joe Donohoe). She enters sixth grade, joins an all-girl group and obsesses about things like bras, sanitary belts and while becoming a woman.

I had no idea that the brilliantly talented Drew Droege (pictured with me after the show) was part of the cast. He basically stole every scene he was in with his amazing timing. Every look, every move, every line reading is just so delicious.

Drew plays Margaret’s mother and the mother of a few other characters. Such. A. Hoot.

The cast is oh-so-talented, most in multiple roles. As Margaret’s BFF, Jennifer Blake really shines and sings lead on several numbers – such a charmer. Amy Procacci, as another friend, makes her comic presence known in a scene involving a plate of Oreo cookies.

Brad Griffith as Margaret’s dad has some hilarious moments – especially during Superstar when we learn he has the hots for his daughter’s boyfriend! Donohoe just nails the role of the boyfriend and I love his solo on Superstar.

Just loved the whole thing and I highly recommend for Carpenters fans and fans of fun musical theater.

The show was conceived, written and directed by Dane Whitlock with choreography by Kim Hale.

The show’s performances are on Friday and Saturday nights at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. for the next three weeks.

The Hudson Theatres are located at 6539 Santa Monica Boulevard in Hollywood. Tickets are $20 and are available at www.plays411.com/karencarpenter.