A cruel, senseless game of vanity aimed at young, naive women created by young, unruly marines turns into an unexpected connection formed between marine Eddie Birdlace (James Ross) and waitress Rose Fenny (Julia MacLean) in JBM Theatre’s debut production of Dogfight. Directed by Cathy Wilmot, the musical runs until October 18th at the Waterfront Theatre. However, while the production features compelling acting, profound storytelling, and exciting musical numbers, the show unfortunately begins losing its spark in the second act.
Lead actors James Ross (as Eddie Birdlace) and Julia MacLean (as Rose Fenny) demonstrate incredible acting chemistry, crafting a deeply genuine bond on stage. Ross acts with an impressive range, capturing Eddie’s initial rowdy marine energy with a conviction that the audience deeply feels. Meanwhile, MacLean portrays Rose’s innocence and vulnerability with raw, unfiltered depth.
Taylor McKee’s stellar musical direction covers a wide range of styles, from high-energy songs to quiet, jazzy acoustic melodies. This musical contrast perfectly mirrors the story’s 1963 setting on the eve of the Vietnam War. Notable highlights include the energetic pop-rock anthem “Hey Good Lookin’,” led by Eddie, Boland (Connor Hawkins), and Bernstein (Caleb Dyks), and the heartbreaking acoustic ballad “Pretty Funny,” performed by Rose.
Complementing the score, Jamie MacLean’s choreography added a striking visual touch, most notably during “Hometown Hero’s Ticker Tape Parade,” which featured high-energy, intensely athletic, and militaristic dance styles.
While the first act is lively and engaging, the second act suffers from a noticeable lack of depth, feeling rushed and thin immediately following Eddie’s apology and the emergence of his romance with Rose, and it only regains its momentum during the gripping war sequence.
The unfolding date sequence at the restaurant and the Golden Gate Bridge highlights Rose’s compelling hesitation to show affection, which serves as a vulnerable reflection of her trauma from the bullying. However, the production fails to expand on this psychological fallout, skimming over her character’s internal wounds.
Had the production allowed these intimate moments to linger, it would have given the actors the space needed to truly unpack those emotional scars. Without that stillness, the show misses a vital opportunity to ground their bond in true emotional depth, leaving the narrative feeling hollow until the sudden shock of the deployment. It is during this deployment that the production finally recaptures its initial energy, driven by the sharp choreography of the “Some Kinda Time (Reprise)” war sequence.
Ultimately, JBM Theatre’s debut production of Dogfight is a touching and impressive first show. While a rushed second act loses some emotional depth, it quickly regains its footing during the sharply choreographed war scenes. The musical is held together by great music, energetic dancing, and strong performances. Be sure to see it at the Waterfront Theatre before it closes on October 18th!
Rating: 4/5
Date watched: October 1st, 2026 (VIP Opening Night)
Location: Waterfront Theatre, Vancouver BC
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