When Jonathan Groff declares, “I’m a wet man,” he’s not kidding! This statement sets the tone for ‘Just in Time,’ the riveting Bobby Darin bio-musical that premiered at Circle in the Square last Saturday. The unique setup features 22 audience members at cabaret tables, perfectly positioned to feel the energy as Groff sings and dances, literally dripping with passion.

Groff is more than just a performer; he embodies a powerful emotional conduit. His connection to the audience is palpable, offering a rare blend of vocal prowess and heartfelt performance. And while Bobby Darin, the self-proclaimed 'nightclub animal,' had a tumultuous journey from pop sensation to reclusive artist, Groff channels him effortlessly, albeit with a more polished voice and vibrant delivery. Their shared compulsion to entertain creates an electrifying connection on stage.

A Show That's Both Splashy and Substance-Heavy

The show opens with Steve Allen's brassy anthem, “This Could Be the Start of Something,” leading into the hit “Beyond the Sea.” These numbers showcase not just Groff’s vocal talent but the grand musical arrangements of Andrew Resnick and his 11-piece ensemble. However, while these songs nod to Darin, they mainly serve as a showcase for Groff’s theatricality.

As the narrative unfolds, we witness Darin's challenging childhood in East Harlem. Groff momentarily sheds his persona to portray a frail young Walden Robert Cassotto, nurtured by his mother, Polly, and monitored closely by his sister, Nina. With a doctor predicting an early demise, Nina's over-protectiveness clashes with Polly’s yearning for Bobby to seize his potential, teaching him how to perform with charisma and flair.

The Emotional Ride of Fame and Relationships

The glimpses of Darin’s early career exude charm, but as the story broadens, it starts to stumble. Darin's humorous courtship with the rising star Connie Francis feels a bit forced, especially considering the mafia threats that loom ominously. The direction eventually leads to Francis's emotional ballad, “Who’s Sorry Now?”—a bittersweet acknowledgment of fame’s pitfalls.

The portrayal of his tumultuous marriage to actress Sandra Dee, however, raises eyebrows. Once the bubbly star of 'Gidget,' Dee quickly transforms into a much darker version of herself, overshadowed by a history of abuse that is barely touched upon. This intriguing subplot could have added depth but is reduced to a mere throwaway line.

Navigating the Tone of a Complex Legacy

While ‘Just in Time’ doesn’t shy away from Darin's flaws or turbulent relationships, it seems to offer him leniency. The chaos in his life, coupled with artistic brilliance, paints an image of a tortured genius rather than a problematic figure. Groff’s charismatic performance makes the audience sympathize with Darin, sometimes more than the narrative warrants.

Yet, as Groff navigates through upbeat hits to more somber reflections, the show’s pacing falters. What starts as buoyant storytelling gradually evolves into a clunky narrative filled with abrupt transitions and historical mentions that feel out of place. Lines about global events like Vietnam and civil rights feel tacked on rather than integrated.

A Mixed Bag, But Groff Shines Bright

By the end of the show, as it delves into Darin's tragic demise at 37, some of its initial charm is lost to the weight of platitudes. Even so, Groff remains a beacon of talent, delivering a performance that will surely be remembered as one of Broadway’s finest. He raises the question—who’s really sorry now?

‘Just In Time’ is currently running at Circle in the Square, Manhattan. Don't miss the chance to witness Groff’s magnetic performance—ticketholders won't regret it!