Opened: February 9, 2001

Book & Lyrics by: Alan Ayckbourn

Music by: Andrew Lloyd Webber

Pittsburgh Public Theater Cast: John Scherer, Martin Jarvis, Donna Lynne Champlin, James Kall, Ian Knauer, Emily Loesser, Heath Lamberts, Don Stephenson, Becky Watson & Steve Wilson

Despite having Andrew Lloyd Webber’s name attached, By Jeeves is an easily forgettable musical comedy that never seems to connect despite trying with all its might.

Bertie Wooster (John Scherer) is supposed to be giving a banjo concert, but when his banjo is stolen and his valet Jeeves (Martin Jarvis) informs him it will be two hours before the new one arrives, he is convinced to recount an adventure to entertain the audience.

The show has a weak premise with unoriginal common mistaken identity tropes and bland music.

Bertie is almost immediately presented as an obnoxious character in the way he treats Jeeves. Other than Jeeves, there aren’t many characters who make an impact except for the smaller roles of Honoria Glossop (Donna Lynne Champlin) and Cyrus Budge III (Steve Wilson).

Final say: Love never arrives. ★☆☆☆☆