Review: 'Pump Boys and Dinettes'

Do you have a significant other who has developed an aversion to live theater and needs to be convinced what will happen onstage is worth leaving the house for?

If so, I have good news. After attending the opening night performance of “Pump Boys and Dinettes” at the Fishermen's Pavilion at Zuanich Point Park with my somewhat grumpy date, I'm convinced even the most reluctant patrons of the arts will be grinning, singing along and stomping their feet on the cement floor by the night's end — just like my boyfriend did.

Although it's important for readers to know the maritime musical is a collaboration between Bellingham TheatreWorks and Western Washington University's Department of Theatre and Dance, that wasn't what I told my fella to convince him to accompany me. Instead, I informed him Boundary Bay Brewery would be on site with ice-cold beverages, a view of the park and Bellingham Bay would be visible from inside the open-air pavilion, the vibe would be nautical and pie would be served during intermission.

“Pump Boys and Dinettes” shows at 7:30 p.m. Fridays through Sundays through July 31 at the Fishermen's Pavilion at Squalicum Harbor. Tickets are $15–$22. Fairhaven Summer Repertory Theatre shows take place nightly (except on Mondays) through July 24 at the FireHouse, 1314 Harris Ave. Tickets are $20. Info and tickets: bellinghamtheatreworks.org.