Newsical: The Musical * D

Several years ago, I saw an earlier edition of this topical review and enjoyed it thoroughly. I remember it as being incisive and edgy. Alas, the current version, now playing at the Kirk Theater, is neither. The ratio of political to nonpolitical topics is lower this time. This is probably a wise choice, because today’s political scene is so absurd that it is not easy to satirize. The send-ups of celebrities from Kim Kardashian to Ryan Lochte mostly fell flat. The performers are enthusiastic, but the material lets them down. (I would name them, but there were no programs.) The music is monotonous. There are some very funny moments, but they are few and far between. I was quite disappointed. Running time: 80 minutes, no intermission.