One Day More ...
Review of Friday & Saturday's IndyFringe Shows ***NOTE*** As usual, unless I specifically note a show as family friendly, don't assume it is:
"Nevermore" - I honestly can't put into words how much I loved this show. I saw it twice and would have watched every single performance of it if I could have. The story of a writer's anguish at losing their muse and attempt at suicide to deal with it was very sharply written and performed. Amy Pettinella adeptly showed the quiet desperation of a writer who's personal life has unraveled beyond the point of recovery. As a stirring counterpoint to her grief is Russell McGee's beautifully layered performance as the tortured soul of Poe who has come to taunt her choice and force her to examine her life as well as to those literary greats who have also chosen suicide as the end to their suffering. It's also a loving tribute to Poe and his personal history as well.
"The Attack of the Big Angry Booty" - Les Kurkendaal's show examining his stint with Jenny Craig and weight loss in general was a much more insightful and funny performance than last year's offering, probably because it centers more on the stories of the clients he encountered than his own personal story. All together it made a touching and hilarious performance.
"Sex/Death" - A collection of seven short skits dealing with sex, death or both. The stories ranged from the totally absurd to the farcically naughty. Lots of laughs brought by and energetic and eager cast. Totally a must-see.
"Gorrest Fump and a Bunch of Other 1 Minute Plays" - Another of the delightful gems of the Fringe Next stage. Everything from Swine Flu on Sesame Street to the travails of Jesus's family is up for ridicule here. Expect to see a lot more from these kids their talent should take them all very far.
Only one more day's worth of shows to go. Those reviews coming right up.
TTFN!
"Nevermore" - I honestly can't put into words how much I loved this show. I saw it twice and would have watched every single performance of it if I could have. The story of a writer's anguish at losing their muse and attempt at suicide to deal with it was very sharply written and performed. Amy Pettinella adeptly showed the quiet desperation of a writer who's personal life has unraveled beyond the point of recovery. As a stirring counterpoint to her grief is Russell McGee's beautifully layered performance as the tortured soul of Poe who has come to taunt her choice and force her to examine her life as well as to those literary greats who have also chosen suicide as the end to their suffering. It's also a loving tribute to Poe and his personal history as well.
"The Attack of the Big Angry Booty" - Les Kurkendaal's show examining his stint with Jenny Craig and weight loss in general was a much more insightful and funny performance than last year's offering, probably because it centers more on the stories of the clients he encountered than his own personal story. All together it made a touching and hilarious performance.
"Sex/Death" - A collection of seven short skits dealing with sex, death or both. The stories ranged from the totally absurd to the farcically naughty. Lots of laughs brought by and energetic and eager cast. Totally a must-see.
"Gorrest Fump and a Bunch of Other 1 Minute Plays" - Another of the delightful gems of the Fringe Next stage. Everything from Swine Flu on Sesame Street to the travails of Jesus's family is up for ridicule here. Expect to see a lot more from these kids their talent should take them all very far.
Only one more day's worth of shows to go. Those reviews coming right up.
TTFN!