Theater review: 'What's It All About? Bacharach Remimagined' -- 2 stars

Just as recent episodes of the television series "Glee" have revolved around the songbooks of the Beatles, Billy Joel and Lady Gaga, "What's It All About? Bacharach Reimagined" -- Kyle Riabko's hipster chic revue of Burt Bacharach hits at New York Theatre Workshop -- looks and sounds like a "Glee"-style tribute to Bacharach.

Riabko, who appeared on Broadway in "Spring Awakening" and "Hair" but is better known as a musician who has opened for John Mayer and Maroon 5, conceived and musically arranged the revue. In a polite but awkward introduction, he explains to the audience that he wanted to interpret Bacharach's pop hits for his generation.

The 90-minute show consists of Riabko and six other band members singing and playing music for three dozen songs, including "Anyone Who Had a Heart," "Walk On By," "San Jose," "What's New Pussycat?" and "Say a Little Prayer," many of which are offered in mash-up form.

As if that wasn't enough work for the seven-member band, after the show, they stand outside the theater as the audience is exiting and offer an encore of "Raindrops."

Riabko's light rock, acoustic guitar-based arrangements are pleasant, and the performers look attractive in their jeans and vintage shirts and offer a sincere, soulful quality. The set design of rugs, couches and lamps adds a cozy feel.

Nevertheless, the show, as directed by Steven Hoggett, is more of a generic cover band tribute than a piece of musical theater. With song after song offered in a similar manner and with little movement, it is a visual bore and a homogenized musical mush.

If you go: "What's It All About? Bacharach Reimagined" plays at New York Theatre Workshop through Jan. 5 79 E. Fourth St., nytw.org.