New York Musical Theater Festival Report: 'How Deep Is the Ocean?' In "How Deep Is the Ocean?" Rob, a pool cleaner with a troubled marriage living at the New Jersey shore, becomes a hero when his new chemical concoction is found to cleanse the polluted sea. His discovery is soon sabotaged by a rival who covets his fame and his wife, leading to a few standard misunderstandings - and the few standard jokes that come with them - on the way to the eventual happy ending. While the plot is implausible, that's not an insurmountable problem in musical comedy. But the book (by Pia Cincotti) is likewise uninterested in satire, allegory or anything other than using the story as a slow-moving vehicle to deliver the next eager-to-please moment. Similarly, the music and lyrics (by Peter Cincotti, a noted crooner and pianist who is Pia's brother) can be catchy, but the variety of tone and subject is sometimes disappointing - the first time Rob sings an ode to chlorine is enough to spark a smile. The 10th or 12th mention of his love for the substance, however, is enough to make you grit your teeth. Still, even as it passes up juicy chances for smarter humor, this moderately entertaining show, directed by Jeremy Dobrish and Gina Rattan, holds a few surprises. A special guest (best not to reveal it here) helps deliver its sharpest moment, and over all, the cast of 13 sings and acts well. Eric Leviton, as Rob, is a satisfying performer with skilled comic timing, while Aaron Ramey and LaVon Fisher-Wilson are impressive in supporting roles. "How Deep Is the Ocean?" wraps up as expected, content to have delivered a few chuckles. Like an old pal who does nothing but grin, the show may have you wishing for racier friends. Through July 27 at the Theater at St. Clement's, 423 West 46th Street, Clinton; (212) 352-3101, nymf.org.