Ryan Lisman put together scenes from different original shows written by Catharsis Company members and it came out very well. I commend that all of these artists had something to say and put in hard work to produce their pieces. The project as a whole was very smooth and had good pacing, had strong pieces throughout. There were minimal sets but small set pieces that were easy to transfer; I blinked my eyes and a new show was up. Without further ado, let me get into the shows.
Fight Like Hell by Christian Levatino is a compelling opener and I loved every minute of it! It follows the story of January 6 rioters who are coming to insight mid-riot, hiding in one of the Capitol’s historic rooms. I am reminded of the masterpiece show by Rogue Ensemble, about the Pulse night club in Florida, real events dramatized. The play combines historic fiction with thriller-esque moments, blending historical events with heightened theatrical storytelling. The actors are all intense and the plot is gripping, watching these characters fall from grace, losing their moral high ground. Could have used more sound effects, I thought, but still, would be an awesome full production.
Blame It On The Raisin by Heidi Appe was about a lady who domesticated a lady bug. Good laughs here, absurdity to the extreme. If there was some deeper meaning, I didn’t catch it. I thought the actors could have been louder.
I have seen many iterations of SubUrban Limbo by Travis Santos Gatz and this one got it just right! The play follows the lead Preston, post-rampage, trying to figure out his next steps. The writing by Travis Santos Gatz is really good, with philosophical themes that leave you thinking long after you have left the theater. I would say the direction by Olivia Greer Gulden is very focused and puts a different perspective on the story, ultimately blending different storylines together. Audience members were heard gasping, laughing, commenting “So good” right after the performance. I put a star next to Tharun Dulla’s name for an outstanding performance as Gino. He walked on stage and pulled in laughs for his stoic humor and endless banter. Other performers, including Sam Zukin, Isabella Costa, Jennifer Donovan did great too, adding different flavors to the production.
Infidel by David Neipris explores the tension between artistic integrity and the business reality of the arts Some really good writing by David Neipris with rich characters and backstories. It really does feel like a good chunk of a bigger idea, I’m excited to see where this one goes.
Angst is a clever production that follows one writer’s inner battle of his own imposter syndrome. Spencer Weitzel plays Anyone and Theo Fay plays Angst, both dressed very similar that makes it easy to know they are the same person. This iteration can be done with plenty of universal emotions, and stay easy to follow. Their energetic performances keep the audience entertained as they smoothly break the fourth wall at times.
Schizm by Ryan Lisman was the final production. A family drama, set during a dinner where chaos erupts. Individual secrets come out, changes that cannot go unnoticed. Excited for the full production in March.
Weekend 1 of the 30 Minutes or Less Fest is over at The Stephanie Feury Theater and some great work has been produced, which might have other showings next week. I want to write little blurbs for each show with the hopes that it may pique your interest. I don’t think I will be returning until this coming Thursday. Mind you, I go into these shows knowing nothing. I probably know a few actors. Very grateful to Matthew Quinn and Bertha Rodriguez for setting this up. (Submitting this without reading through because I want to meet my deadline — if I have misgendered anyone, or spelled names incorrectly, or told lies, please do tell me so that I can edit; and happy to do so).
I Wrote You A Play/Letter From The Grave performed by Jo Dellapina and Jeff Dinnell had its premiere at The 30 Minutes or Less Festival; two separate one act scenes. Nicely written show. Energetic performances. It appeared experimental, like scenes that had grown from a workshop or class. Matthew Kamm’s “Letter From The Grave” had themes of grief and recovery; characters with history and backstory. So I was a bit confused as to why the second scene started at a bar, but turns out they were unrelated. Heard an audience member laugh and say “I could relate” to the first act. Minimalist production with a lot of heart.
Gilded Spindle is the ambitious and imaginative project by Wyndwolf Puppets which had its premiere at the 30 Minutes or Less Festival at The Stephanie Fuery Theater. The production moved at a fast pace, quickly establishing its medieval world through a series of short and intense stylized scenes. Rapid transitions and frequent blackouts, with the focus on storytelling and visual experiments. I enjoyed watching Adam Frost-Venrick as the king, who brought a commanding yet comedic presence. Zander Raphael did a great job as the puppeteer, watching them move the puppet felt like watching Andy Serkis create Gollum/Smeagol.
Momma! I burnt the chicken! Had its sold out premiere and clearly resonated with the audience. A warm, hilarious, and deeply personal production that will stand out as one of the most engaging and comedic shows of the festival. The set transported us back to the 1990s with the sounds of 90s commercials playing from the TV; the audience even joyfully sang along to the Toys R Us theme song. Nina Childs was so free on the stage, commands with ease and authenticity, and we enjoyed every moment of it. A simple concept that takes the public persona of a churchgoing woman into her private home with her unguarded self, capturing something both specific and universal for a memorable theatrical experience.
I feel like I have seen Against All Odds before, but really I remember seeing Larry Meyers at the Hollywood Fringe Festival for his show, “Did I Just Join A Cult?” Both shows were similar in style and extraordinarily entertaining! He sits at a table with a script nearby by and just tells stories. Philosophical, mind bending, awakening describes it. Themes of synchronicity and the magic of story. It made me sad that the audience wasn’t filled, I hope more people get to see this wonderful work.
Pinky Jones’s solo piece Looking For Backup is her personal parallel journeys of becoming a real estate agent and an actor. This show is a work in progress, as Jones could be seen holding up her script, but I admire how she wasn’t afraid to be nervous. Yes, Pinky shined on stage as we could see the sweat dripping down her neck but it was real and genuine and all we could ask for on stage. These types of stories are healing for both the performer and the audience member.
Mr. Big did a staged reading last year, at this festival, and also had a run at the Hollywood Fringe Festival over summer; this production gets better every time. Based on a story by Woody Allen, the play is adapted to the stage by Brian Knudson I really like the charm and charisma of both performers. Sue Gisser was wonderful with the multiple characters she played. A thoughtful script, a smorgasbord of philosophy; this time opened with an intro by Tuba Heatherton Groucho Marx.
I don’t know how Spencer Frankenberger has time to do a show as he is doing tech for just about every show but he managed to put a cohesive show together, Blow The Man Down: A Sea Shanty Concert is the story of seven sailors adrift at sea. The characters, music, and design fit those of pirate-inspired world. I liked how the concert played like a concept album, with the narrative unfolding through song. One singer had an exceptionally strong voice which added an extra layer to the character dynamics.
Experience Taught Me Nothing by Christine Blackburn is another personal storyteller show, warmly supported by the audience. Blackburn tells the story of taking a bold and risky leap; how she took out her retirement funds to produce her partner’s theater production. It was a rough production, I assumed, as Christine was still holding up her script; underscoring the honesty and rawness of the piece. Her delivery is confident and compelling, and she forms a genuine connection with the audience. She goes over the hurdles of producing and managing a relationship at the same time, with humor and candor.
The Miraculous V: The Bizarre Awakening of a Virgin Witch is a spell-binding one-person show, blending autobiography, trauma, and fantasy. Shara Kirby introduces herself with a playful, charming persona but does not let the darkness stay out of sight. It is a fun, surprising show, but also one that might make you squirm. It asks the audience to sit with discomfort as much as delight I need not say more other than SEE THIS SHOW. This is a show that will win the hearts of audiences through, laughs and tears, and will stay with us long after the lights have gone down.
Kittens In Space was a fun, experimental, and comedic piece; one that won the audience laughs through absurdity and physical humor. Themes include talking animals, random encounters, drug trips, and time bending – a wild combo. The creators of this show did a great job in creating the play’s world. A fun, entertaining piece
Autastic is a Jeff Ahern’s deeply personal journey of finding out his son is autistic. A ver raw, honest, and profoundly heartfelt show. Whereas other one-person shows had scripts (in hand) this was simply Jeff recounting stories of his son, creating an immediate, genuine connection with the audience. Jeff holds back tears as a slide show of photographs brings up different memories, allowing for emotion to speak for itself. Perhaps one of my favorite shows this season, touching and resonates long after it ends.
What a stellar performance by Shelley Cooper in her show, Emily F—ing Dickinson: America’s Favorite Recluse, a tour-de-force performance! Emily is up on stage, even before the show begins, making us laugh as the theater rolls through its announcements. She gives us a stunning portrait of two extremes, moving seamlessly between ecstatic mania and rock-bottom depression. In this show, Shelley becomes the character, speaking to the audience from her reclusive state while remaining fully present. The performer’s range is astonishing, particularly being able to blend comedy into her darkest moments.
Two short one acts by the same team, The End & Fast Moving Consumer Goods that balance comedy with surprisingly heartfelt themes. The first play took a moment to establish context, but it carried well with wit and charm. The End was about a woman who fell and hit her head and was now meeting face-to-face with Death as they try to figure out her fate. The second play, Fast Moving Consumer Goods begins with a call with the suicide hotline that quickly veers into unexpected hilarity. Both offer fresh takes on heavy subjects with the message that human connection is all we need.
Hooligani was a gripping, fun portrait of a cold-hearted criminal. Vennessa Verdugo transforms herself Tetyana, a Russian madame with a family empire, willing to tell all for a better sentence. As I clutched my seat, I had to remind myself that this is only a show, a character. The show is filled with imagery and comedic breaks. Verdugo creates different impressions through the stories she tells and entertains exceptionally. Excited to see how this show will grow, or if Vennessa has more characters to bring to life.
An interesting concept for Heartbreak Feels Good (In A Place Like This) and I had no idea what kind of a show I was stepping into based on the poster. But we have all heard that saying before, yes, its is from Nicole Kidman’s AMC Intro Video. Levani Ko presents us with preparation for his upcoming audition to replace Nicole Kidman and uses her script to create the show. They know their audience well (mostly actors) and proceed to take suggestions on how to best prepare for the audition and will Yes-And anything the audience desires! I have no idea if they can actually breakdance, but they committed entirely! They worked with the audience to interpret and analyze each word of Kidman’s monologue. This was a fun experience and next show will be entirely different, so I don’t feel bad for any spoilers. Go see this one for a fun time!
I left Bad Medicine by Adam Frost-Venrick so disturbed that I couldn’t write about it, but it was so damn good and hilarious! He plays a doctor, no, a Juris Doctor, wait, I mean he got an online certificate or something of that nature to be able to commit to his experiments. And boy, does he take us on a ride. I almost through up, but was it cause of the copious amounts of laughter? You will have to find out for yourself…. RECOMMENDED
Wow, this show blew me away! It had the heart and soul of Fringe in it, a strong message with excellent story and not too complicated design. Had to cry in my car before congratulating the writer; one of the few shows that made me cry. Expertly written (and performed) characters who have both conscious and unconscious goals that develop throughout the story. Historical fiction that bites into our soul, with no unneeded emphasis on sexuality. Shows the dualities of a woman’s experience living within a man’s world. This show has strong roots, and I can’t wait to see how it develops. One of my Fringe favorites.
Magnet of Chaos at The Broadwater
Sarah Lazarus is one of a kind! Sarah takes us on an interdimensional journey with Jennifer Coolidge and Bernie Sanders, both voiced by her, to find her own trauma. This piece was incredibly fun, super funny, and tackles raunchy themes.
The Eddies and the Pypers at Actors Company
Powerful show about death and grief, a strong subject for the stage. One of the few shows I have seen that made me cry. Very strong acting with an excellent supporting cast. Nice direction and good use of the stage. Because this was originally written for the screen (as stated in the program), I wanted to hate this but couldn’t – the story was excellent and philosophical in nature. It felt very written for the screen. Short scenes and quick blackouts. The audience would clap after every blackout even if it was just a transition scene.
Beth Wants the D at The Broadwater
An incredible one person show on mental health. Beth starts the show off an an audience member for a production of Dog Hamlet and jumps on stage due to her compulsive thoughts. She takes us down the rabbit hole of those thoughts, mixes them with mental health, and educates us about the journey of mania and depression which leads to her diagnosis. Even though the subject matter can be tough, she keeps the show fun with her one of a kind, comedic personality. A truly inspiring and insightful story.
Saw too many shows tonight. I’m too tired to write. Bookmarking this for later.
A Perfectly Still Curveball at The Broadwater
RomCom, just okay. Same actors Pam Quinn Eberhart always uses same actors, nice to see them team up. I have seen a lot of Pam’s shows, want to see her try a different style
15th Century Ballerina at The Broadwater
Tagline – “Comedy, Tragedy, Silk, Cello, Dance.” This show brings all of that and much more!
Wow what a hilarious character for a one person show. A modern day actors with her mind stuck in the 15th century. She interfaces with the present time while struggling to hold onto her profession as a ballerina. Taking us on wild adventures, short lived and eternal romances.
Excellent performance and use of audience. Prepare to laugh your ass off and be wowed by such a role. Tour de force performance from Catherine O’Meara.
The Young Jane Show at EastPAC
Hidden gem at Hollywood Fringe Fest, could easily win an award for political theater. This show is a historic documentation of our times.
The play begins with Young Jane speaking to her viewers on a streaming service but transforms into a series of poetry and song, giving life to what our hearts fight for.
I’m saddened that it was only me and two others in the audience. Lorne Stevenson Jr. gives a domineering performance that has us siding with Young Jane as they spiral into protest.
Jersey Devil at The Broadwater Mainstage
Personal, poignant, and big laughs. Hal Rudnick is terrific in delivering this unique yet universal story, which pushes extremes but stays realistic.
Rudnick speaks on anti social personality disorder and how it manifested in his father. Growing up with a lifetime of embarrassing and dangerous moments. The show stays on theme throughout and Hal shows pictures on the projector that captures moments.
Did it need to be on main stage?
Holy Holy’s at The Broadwater
Wow what a show. Clown Work is really taking over Fringe this year. This is a show like no other, it is art! Great performances, physical comedy, and use of tech design. A fun experience in which the audience will feel like a part of the show.
I guess it’s day 7? Yesterday was the party, so, doesn’t count. I started a new job today. It’s late, let me try and get through this.
Dog of Carnage at The Broadwater
Might be Benjamin Schwartz’s best show yet, and a great production by the Catharsis Theatre Collective. Such a dynamic, fast-paced show with so many elements that work well together: sound, lighting, direction, etc. Excellent direction by Natalie Nicole Dreschel too, who finds smooth transitions between the different timelines we witness. I had the chance to see this at Catharsis Bites a few months ago and love how it progressed, while keeping the same, simple concept behind it. I love the writing, two characters with conscious goals, and an objective perspective that does not take sides for either character. The acting is incredible – both Spencer Weitzel and Callie Ott knock it out of the park with the way they take the satirical (albeit metaphorical) so seriously. You will find yourself trying to figure out which side to take, and it is better than any courtroom drama you will see on TV.
Moments In Flight at The Broadwater
This show is a hidden gem of the Fringe Festival, Aidan O’Conner gives one of the funniest (and perhaps most touching) experimental shows all season. A talented performer who gives us nonstop laughs as she switches out between different characters on a flight. Audience interaction is heavy, and every seat will be laughing through the directions prompted by her. I have nothing bad to say about this, but just know that you are going into a show that is a character showcase.
Broke Bitch Got Rich at The Broadwater
Fun show! Personal story about Betsy Cox’s journey through a childhood of poverty in Louisiana and finding her way out in Hollywood, all while being undiagnosed with ADHD. Charming and full of laughs. As I was watching it, I could sense how rehearsed it was; it did not feel as though Betsy were talking to us, but reciting lines, at first. Then, as she flubbed a line about Taco Bell, she laughed it off, and joked about how it is 11PM and she’s feeling it! I felt that was the most genuine point of the whole piece because she got off script. But that is not to take away from how enjoyable the show was. A main theme had to do with trying to fit in different boxes and I liked the style in which the staging allowed her to explore this theme. Anyways, it’s 1 AM right now and I’m tried. I will complete this one tomorrow.
Ah Shit… I Didn’t Create My Fringe Show… at The Broadwater
Aah Shit… I Didn’t Create My Fringe Show… is half correct, because it is a well-crafted show about being half prepared and it is an enjoyable, immersive experience! Filled with sound and tech cues, the show is one that keeps you excited. Trevor has so so many tricks up his sleeve to keep the audience engaged (not a magic show) and whatever we, the audience, bring into the show he will use. Highly entertaining! From the start, Trevor keeps us laughing as he stumbles through. My favorite part is when he brought an audience member onstage– and that’s all I will say about that. This one is a memorable piece! At one point, audience members panicked due to a cockroach appearance, and Trevor welcomed the reaction and worked with it. I apologize for yelling out “basketball,” when Trevor asked for a suggestion for a historical event to close out the show with improv. But he used the suggestion and made it work!
Mark Vigeant: Out There at The Broadwater
Mark does it again, knocking it out of the park with this one-man immersive experience. Come on down to journey with Larry, a former Eagle Scout, as he live-streams his stay in the wilderness. I’m laughing as I even type this. Larry live streams the show as he struggles to stay safe and sane in the wilderness. You will feel like family, or plant, or water; either way, you really do feel like you are there with him. So many surprises and twists. This show is wildly entertaining, ultra funny, and an extravagantly memorable experience! I liked every part of this show! The audience participation was great as well, Mark has great intuition and knows how to work with what comes his way. There may have been a technical difficulty, but Mark uses it to his advantage. I can’t stop laughing thinking about this experience.
I loved this show! Abi gives us charm and confidence, and a range of feelings throughout this short and personal production. In retrospect, this is the kind of show that will change someone’s outlook on the world, as it engages the viewer to peak behind the masks we wear daily. The play starts inside of her scattered mind and changes pace as reality sets in. This show is powerful and raw, the emotional effect pulls you at your seat. Witty writing with smooth transitions. Abi gives a poignant and memorable performance. Abi made a good choice to perform at an intimate studio space. I noticed how well-rehearsed this show is, which is not uncommon in one person shows. At one point someone opened the door and peaked into the studio, and the moment slipped away and the show went on. Did the energy of the room shift a little or was that just me? What happened to the performer at that moment? I guess that is not something actors think about while preparing a show, but how does one stay in character when something like that happens? Maybe I’m overthinking this point.
A Minor Inconvenience at Actors Company
Two lives, parallel experiences of a cultural shift and coming of age. A show by younger artists, what appears to be personal stories. These two leads have a great voice. I respect the vulnerability that these young artists put into their work and for putting up a show at the Fringe Festival. A musical but the music was too loud. One actor seemed to be having fun, laughing off her mistakes, the rest were too serious. I wish the ensemble was utilized a bit more. The set is minimal, lights are used as spotlights.
Nyx: The Girl Born To Chaos at Actors Company
Very entertaining and enjoyable show! Fun and disturbing, if you’re into that. The show is better than comic book movies, it is a live comic, a surreal experience. I like too that it is short (30 minutes), as it lets the images punch in much harder. The show is graphic, in that there is action and blood, and it is all done very professionally with tremendous choreography. The show is not an origin story, yet there are many possibilities to explore more.
My Tiger at The Broadwater Mainstage
An honest and unique approach to storytelling. Dionysus took the concept of a one-man show to another level with this project. In this production, Didi tells us of the experience of growing up as a mixed race boy in the U.S in the early 1990s and how that shapes him to who he is today. Throughout the show, he comes out to share context, pieces from a memory, and then has actors live them out through a series of vignettes. This is an insightful and enjoyable show. I love the concept, and think the writer is creating an awareness to different types of storytelling. I love how culture plays a central role in this production, and we get to experience different periods in the writer’s life along with different characters. I am not sure if this project needed to be done on main stage, due to the minimalism, but it worked. The transitions often felt repetitive, black outs between monologue and vignette. It is not my job to give notes, but I wondered what it would be like if the speaker was sitting on stage watching his story with us.
Termination Fee at The Broadwater
This is an experimental, existential dark comedy that gets in laughs and thought provoking ideas. The show follows Neal who is let go of his job and wonders how he can continue to support his partner. They trivialize different ideas and it makes us, the audience, question what happiness truly means. The actors were great in their deadpan humor, but it made me wonder about the seriousness of the subject. This feels as though it were written for film, though I have no issue with it being on staage for experimentation.
Saturdays at 10 AM at Eastwood PAC
A genuine, heartwarming, and enjoyable musical that surpasses any expectation of what a Fringe musical would look like! This is a top tier production through the performances which were all filled with great energy, a plot that had good structure, and hilarious, laugh out loud moments. I believe all of the actors used live singing, except for one, which was a satirical character in nature. The energy of the production is so great and every actor gave life to their characters, making each moment purposeful. I will say that these characters are goofy in nature and it was a bit tough to connect to their emotional drives, but it was still a fun watch. The actors professionally dealt with any technical difficulties, such as set pieces falling on the ground or microphones creating noises. The show did go slightly overtime, but fortunately I made it to my Uber so that I can make my 7th show of the day. I sat in the front, and as I turned my head to see how the audience was enjoying, I perceived their bodies as still; they not bopping their heads or clapping their hands to the music. So to answer the question of what could be improved – maybe the audience can act like they are having a good time too. Just kidding, it’s a great show.
Oh Constantine! at The Zephyr Theater
This is one of the funniest projects you will see in all of Fringe! It felt great to laugh out loud every few lines. Oh Constantine! is surrealism, satire, and absurdism all in one. The performances are fantastic and the plot is silly but cohesive and good. The production is filled with elaborate costume and set design, and takes its comedy so seriously that you cannot help but laugh at (with) the satire. I liked the Standout performances! Each actor takes their role so seriously which adds to the humor; different characters that give different flavors. I loved the interactive nature of this piece, how characters worked with the audience to help move the plot along.
Really fun and insightful show! Daniel Shar reviews his career as a comedian turned porn extra. You might come see it for the sex part, but this show is about the need for human connection. Daniel Shar takes us on the wild ride of his career and shows us (yes) the highs and lows, in his journey. This is a well-structured one-man show that separates itself from stand-up comedy. I definitely recommend this show for the entertainment, the curiosity, and the laughs. Incredible marketing, with the condom program, and the vibes were spot on as we entered the show with hip hop music playing and Daniel’s photo on the projector. Daniel began the show a bit nervous, it seemed, as he appeared to be shaking while holding the dildo microphone, but it was endearing and allowed his confidence to grow throughout the show. Shar sprinkles in humor constantly and knows what he brings to the stage. He gets personal and stays funny thrpugh the dark times. I loved the transitions, how he made it so unique to fit his presence (writing vague; don’t want to spoil the humor). I guess at one point I was confused, thinking the dog was the romantic partner – but I understand that was his way of respecting privacy.
This Is Water and The Broadwater
This Is Water is award winning musician Rain Perry’s retelling of her history growing up in California as a white woman and being aware of the effects of segregation laws. The plot follows as she sits down to write her album and shuffles through her own lineage. On stage she is seated at a desk with boxes of pages behind her, a laptop which projects her research onto the backdrop, and a personal assistant who helps with organization. The action takes place during the pandemic, as she reminisces on her parents who had been cheering on Barack Obama before his election and is currently seeing the effects of the Black Lives Matter protests nationwide. This show is highly relevant for our time, with the ICE raids going on as we speak, and Perry’s experience will resonate with a large audience. “All big social issues are told through a personal story, I wanted to challenge myself to hold myself accountable onstage and hope audiences will do the same.” she writes. I did come in a few minutes late, so I must have missed the introduction. I was a bit confused as to if this show is a work in progress, as she sat on stage with a script, but then realized how that is a piece of the production itself. With others on stage with her, musicians and the assistant, I wondered why she chose not to interact with them as much.
Bathroom Diaries at The Broadwater
I came in not knowing much and appreciate the honesty and vulnerability Christina shares on stage with us; powerful, personal, and an important story to be told. The show follows an only child’s struggles with a bladder condition that later manifests into an eating disorder and alcoholism. Christina sprinkles humor into even her darkest moments, keeping the audience engaged through the different characters she plays.I enjoy seeing personal shows as they can give the viewers a visceral sense of hope. Christina keeps the show’s energy high from the top of the show until the end, and keeps us laughing throughout.I wish more time was spent on the realizations Christina had throughout her journey, what it was like to come to terms with the internal struggles she faced. What was the Belly of the Whale she faced which called for her rebirth? I wondered. It was redeeming that she found love, but I was left with some questions.
Romeo and Juliet in 60 Minutes at The Mcadden Theater
Very enjoyable experience with fantastic performances and good direction! I came into this wanting to dislike it, thinking Shakespeare deserves months if not years of study, yet whatever Colleen has crafted should be shared with more performers and lovers of theater. I came in with the lens of “This group only had a few days to put this together” but whatever predetermined belief I had was surpassed. I liked the quick nature of this style; Shakespeare wrote no subtext and the actors performed it in such a way that was easy to understand. I liked the fight choreography and how all parts of the stage was used. I really wish Mercutio’s Queen Mab monologue made the cut.
Venus in Fur at The Broadwater Mainstage
One of the best shows I have seen all year! The play is about a casting session that intertwines with the personal lives of these characters, juggling with themes of gender, power, and desire. The play runs 90 minutes and not a moment is dull. The play is full of dynamic chemistry, boundaries being blurred, and control being pulled in many directions. Phenomenal performances, a show that looks ready for a professional run. Bryan McKinley as Thomas and Rachael Meyers as Vanda, both give masterful performances. I like how the actors both play with power so well. The physical intimacy on stage is so thoughtfully precise. Lighting shifted the mood as well and the set had many layers to it. There is nothing I did not like in the show itself, but our show went a little overtime. I missed the uber to my next show and only got to see 5 shows today. Maybe that is just a testament into how we, as audience members, fall into doing whatever we are told; a theme in the show.
The history of human evolution in about 45 minutes: exceedingly hilarious, phenomenal, one of the best shows I will see this season! George Aivaliotis communicates through clown work and physical comedy, creating an immersive, psychedelic, variety one-man show. Aivaliotis has such great energy and connects with the audience throughout the show. Quick and hilarious costume changes that occur, images that will not leave my mind – on a positive note. True theater magic in which the performer rolls with what the audience gives him. Absurdist theater that is about everything and nothing at the same time. Maybe a small issue, but I believe there are specific ways to hold a prop gun on stage. I could be mistaken, but otherwise everything was great.
The Club of Broken Fasts at The Broadwater
What a delightful show and terrific ensemble piece! Come see this show for a fun time. I don’t know much about this theater company but it feels like my high school self’s dream come true, retellings of modern classics in a Shakespearean style (hence the About the Project written in iambic pentameter).Broken Fasts = Breakfast, The Breakfast Club! It’s an interesting concept. A co-director stepped in for a missing actor, last minute, but not a beat was missed! I liked the way the actors worked with the needed accommodations was top notch professionalism. Hilarious translation of classic lines from The Breakfast Club, such as, “Eat you my shorts!” and more. Great use of the set and lighting, theater that felt magical through the way they conducted transitions between scenes. Well-crafted characters with phenomenal execution. Everything had extreme detail to it.
And What of the Children at The Broadwater
A very intense, emotional-driven show. Themes that might be deeply disturbing but important to bring to the stage. Haunting, sinister, and uncomfortable at times, but you become interested in these character’s lives. Twists that will have audiences gripping their seats! I liked the transitions between scenes; not to give any spoilers, but I thought it was very creative and took us inside the minds of the characters in a way I have not seen before. I liked the juxtaposition of the tough themes and Hanna playing the voice of reason. I could not tell the relationship of Scott to the other actors by the way he behaved. Once it was revealed he was the older brother, I remained confused. The energy was low throughout the play, it seemed, and at times I wanted these characters to fight harder for their goals. The play began with a few light moments of humor but remained dark for the rest of the show, leaving little room for humanity and connection.
Amazing Sex Life of Rabbits at The Broadwater
Smart, hilarious, and surprisingly biting comedy that plays like a Christopher Durang fever dream. A simple concept at the start, but a play that examines class, relationships, and the needs between partners.A remarkably fun show with strong characters, sharp writing, excellent story, and a great dynamic between the characters. Very enjoyable show, the house was full and not a beat was missed. Top tier performances, hilarious physical comedy, and full of surprises. These actors all knock it out of the park! Strong characters, great chemistry and dynamic between the actors, and an excellent story. Some of the characters feel a little malleable. You find yourself, as the audience, questioning their choices. The show answers its own questions rather than leaving the audience to think about these themes.
All Cats Go To Hell by Mandy Rubeli is an incredible production. It starts with children playing in the streets but leads to mythological proportions. Mandy Rubeli is such a fantastic writer, the play follows great structure and each character is fantastically layered. Thought provoking themes that include death, grief, and the afterlife. The show leaves you with visceral feelings, a range that begins from laughing with each other line, to a the eerie feelings the play offers. Great performances and great chemistry between the actors; although they played characters much younger than themselves (I believe), they were able to find the guiding force behind each character. Without giving spoilers, I will say that I liked how each character develops throughout the play. I love the physicality on stage, how each actor is able to embody the environment. The less you know, of this play, going in, the better.
Tales of the Ancient East by Antony Zioni is a short, 45 minute show, at the Hudson Theater. This was a fun experience, a spectacle that will leave you entranced. A one-man rock opera about the Old Testament. Antony Zioni put together a very ambitious project with a stunning production design. Too much fog made for a nice spectacle but felt a bit claustrophobic for the viewer. I did not really follow the story, felt like there was too much going on. Long transitions/blackouts made me wonder if this must be done as a one-person show. It is a great start, there is much passion in this project.
Murder, Oops! by Molly Sharpe at The Broadwater; Sharpe really owns the stage, through endless energy, with the various characters she plays in this show! The play begins with a character who finds her This show is non-stop laughs and will go places you would not imagine. Highly entertaining! She greeted us outside and talked to us all the way throughout the beginning of the show. This truly feels like a show that no one else but Molly can do. I enjoyed the numerous times she breaks the fourth wall and makes the show interactive. The minimalism in this show works.
Stage Takes 