FRINGE-icals: The TEAM!

Marlowe

2005-09-02T08:26:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Marlowe
RUNNING TIME: 2h
VENUE: SOHO Playhouse
GENRE: Drama/Spoken Word/Poetry
AIR CONDITIONED: yes
INTERMISSION: yes
RATING (0-4): 4

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

I don't think I am going out on a limb here by saying this but Marlowe is the best play I have ever seen in my whole life. I was sooooo disappointed when I read the Playbill and it said the play was running in Chicago. I would pay money to go to Chicago to see this play again. I'M SERIOUS. The writing was excellent. The acting was excellent. The wardrobe was excellent. The choreography was hilarious (not that it wasn't good, but it had me laughing...) I was glad to finally see a play that did not insult the audience's intelligence and believed adults were living adult lives in the Elizabethan era.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

For what I can tell the play is already running in Chicago, but hopefully it can have a run in New York. Anyone in the Chicago area make an effort to see this play!

Roller Skates and Mary Jane

2005-09-01T09:05:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Roller Skates and Mary Jane
RUNNING TIME: 1h 50m
VENUE: The Village Theatre
GENRE: Comedy Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: Yes
RATING (0-4): 2

RATING SCALE
0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

The play is set in the 1980s. It boasts a good soundtrack and some witty dialogues. The main character keeps addressing the audience directly every now and then. This gets a tad monotonous after a while. Overall the play is decent time pass. It is worth a watch for anyone who is nostalgic about the 80s.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

The play could have possibilities off-off Broadway with some polishing of dialogue and little less narration from the title character.

Venezuela

2005-09-01T09:03:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Venezuela
RUNNING TIME: 1h 20m
VENUE: The Players Theatre
GENRE: Spoken Word/Poetry
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: YesRATING (0-4): 2

RATING SCALE
0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

The main problem with the show is the language. The play has been translated from a German street lingo to English. The translation at times is difficult to comprehend and hence loses the desired impact. Hasani Issa as Ismir stands out. The set design of a dilapidated train station is impressive. The show begins with a bang but then peters out. The performances could have been more believable, but then perhaps it is because the actors don’t get the needed support from the dialogues owing to the translation from the alien dialect.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

Travis Tanner

2005-08-30T14:59:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Travis Tanner
RUNNING TIME: 2h
VENUE: SOHO Playhouse
GENRE: Oratorio (but it seemed like a musical to me...)
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No
RATING (0-4): 0/2 (I'll explain)

RATING SCALE:
0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

I understand that Travis Tanner was attempting to bring back the ancient chorus with the 50 people on stage, however they failed miserably. (Hence the zero for the first hour of the "oratorio." ) The huge entourage for a fringe festival play was completely unnecessary! The only point in which the "oratorio" seemed coherent was in the second half when Kelvin Ortega got his chance to dominatethe stage. The whole cast and crew should thank him for providing the few entertaining moments when he sang "Network TV Did Me Wrong"and "Positively, Negatively Me." He should have a one man show.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

Ambrosia

2005-08-30T14:45:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Ambrosia
RUNNING TIME: 1h 10m
VENUE: Dixon Place
GENRE: Dramedy
AIR CONDITIONED: No
INTERMISSION: No
RATING (0-4): 2

RATING SCALE:
0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

The actresses had a great connection to the audience. Unfortunately a lot of their references as their older selves and their younger selves were much to vague. The writing hardly reached the caliber of the acting. Each character needs more personal stories in order to draw in the whole audience. A few good one-liners does not create a good play. However good acting can make the worst script worth sitting through.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

Maybe off-Broadway, the concept is good but it needs to be fleshed out.

Widow of Abraham

2005-08-30T14:43:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Widow of Abraham
RUNNING TIME: 1h 30 m
VENUE: 13th Street Repertory Company
GENRE: Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: No
INTERMISSION: No
RATING (0-4): 3

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

This play was very powerful for the entire hour and a half, which is a difficult level to sustain in a one-person play. However, AnneThibault did a wonderful job. Some of the characters were a little random, which is what I assume the writer (David Valdes Greenwood) was going for. This play is worth more than $15 for a viewing.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I could see a strong run on Off-Off Broadway or on the college circuit.

The Redemption

2005-08-30T14:39:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: The Redemption
RUNNING TIME: 1h 10 m
VENUE: Dixon Place
GENRE: Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: No
INTERMISSION: No
RATING (0-4): 0

RATING SCALE:
0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

The play was a complete cliche from beginning to end. The usual cheesy topics were all present: family, foregiveness, parent/childrelations, redemption, etc. It's too bad because the premise for the play seemed like a strong one.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

None

LOL

2005-08-29T13:43:00.001-07:00

SHOW TITLE: LOL
RUNNING TIME: 1h 30m
VENUE: The Theatre at the Center for Architecture
GENRE: Comedy
AIR CONDITIONED: yes
INTERMISSION: no
RATING (0-4): 2

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

LOL is a play about a man who can't seem to get a woman so he goes
online to find one. When he notices that woman are getting together in
"girl on girl" chat room he adopts a female alter ego to meet woman. As
the play progresses he begins to loose sight of his own self and starts
to fight with his female ego to gain control of his identity. This play
was fun and engaging tackling the issues of Internet sex and
relationships. This a concept that most people in the audience are
familiar with, whether they would ever admit it or not. I laughed as
the actor began to struggle between the two identities. This play takes
something that happens all the time online, someone taking on another
identity, and takes it to the extreme. It was fun and I'm glad I got a
chance to see it!

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I see this play having a possible run on Off-Off Broadway. It hits
home for a lot of people in today's society, everyone understands the
issues of the Internet and that can relate to society as a whole.

SILENCE!: The Musical

2005-08-29T13:43:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: SILENCE!: The Musical
RUNNING TIME: 2h
VENUE: Lucille Lortel
GENRE: Musical Comedy
AIR CONDITIONED: yes
INTERMISSION: no
RATING (0-4): 4

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

SILENCE!: The Musical, was one of the most entertaining shows of the
fringe this season. It's parody of Silence of the Lambs was so accurate
it is obvious that the writer obviously did his homework. I loved the
incorporation of the ensemble of lambs which would come in at
intermittent scenes as stage crew as well as played many other
characters in the show. Jen Harris, who played Clarice, was so
committed and hysterically funny. Her comic timing was point on and her
reaction time was perfect. This is true for the rest of the cast as
well. They all had great timing and the cast just seemed to gel.
Further, the choreography was great. SILENCE! had the best dancing I
have scene out of all the Musicals in the Fringe. If you Love Silence
of the Lambs, or just like to laugh you will love this musical!

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

Off-Off/Off Broadway bound. It hits a lot of different audiences, a
bit inappropriate at times, but a great show with a lot of marketing
potential and success in its future.

Sex With Jake Gyllenhaal and Other Stories of the Northeast

2005-08-29T13:42:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Sex With Jake Gyllenhaal and Other Stories of the Northeast
Corridor
RUNNING TIME: 2h
VENUE: 13th St. Repertory Theatre
GENRE: Comedy/Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: no
INTERMISSION: no
RATING (0-4): 3

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

Sex with Jake Gyllenhaal was a collection of different types of love,
some appropriate and wanted, others inappropriate an unwanted. Each
actor played multiply parts and committed to them so much that I forgot
the other characters they had played. The concept of the show was to
show people that everything starts when you connect with another
person. Some of the stories were cute, some pathetic, and some
completely horrifying. One of the scenes between a teacher and his 8th
grade student had me so enraptured that I forgot I was watching a play.
I started feeling so bad for the teacher that I had an overwhelming
urge to help him, almost as if it were reality. I really liked this
show, it was different and the acting was good as well.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I see this show possibly going to Off-Off Broadway. each story can
connect with some part of every audience member. Also the writing was
very good, very realistic.

Much Ado About Nothing

2005-08-29T13:41:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Much Ado About Nothing
RUNNING TIME: 2h
VENUE: Washington Square Park
GENRE: Shakespeare
AIR CONDITIONED: no (outside)
INTERMISSION: not
RATING (0-4): 3

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

This performance of Much Ado About Nothing was really good. I loved
the way that they played the characters and it was really nice in the
natural environment. This was there last performance, but I hope
everyone got a chance to see it. The performers were a little hard to
hear, but that can be expected because we were oustide in the park at a
peak time, between 5-7. The actors were from a troup from Alaska, and
they were making their New York debute, which was definitley a success.
Tjey have quite the bright future ahead of them.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

Much success ahead of them!

Frida and Herself

2005-08-29T13:39:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Frida and Herself

RUNNING TIME:
VENUE: The Linhart Theatre at 440 Studios
GENRE:
AIR CONDITIONED: Not really
INTERMISSION: No
RATING (0-4): 1

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

This show came off more like a “wannabe-Frida-the-movie”. There was nudity (which I thought was unnecessary) and actors French-ing life-size puppets. The puppet thing didn’t work for me. I didn’t really see the purpose. They were life-sized puppets playing human parts…why not have live actors? The puppets didn’t even do anything extraordinary, they just walked around stage. I think the show wanted to be creative and daring, but it didn’t come off daring to me. The dancing version of Frida didn’t even really dance, she just kind-of moved around looking glum.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

None

The Last Two Minutes of the Complete Works of Henrik Ibsen

2005-08-29T13:38:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: The Last Two Minutes of the Complete Works of Henrik Ibsen
RUNNING TIME: 2h
VENUE: Ace Clubs
GENRE: Comedy
AIR CONDITIONED: yes
INTERMISSION: yes
RATING (0-4): 2

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

The Last Two Minutes of the Complete Works of Henrick Ibsen was a
collection of the last two minutes of every Ibsen play. It was
performed by a group of Neo-Futurists and it was very interesting The
first Act they used many creative ways to play out the last two
minutes. t was interesting to watch the similarities between all the
plays and the different unique ways that the actors played each
mini-scene. The second Act dragged a bit because they stopped being
overly creative and seemed to just play out the last two minutes. Also,
the later plays of Ibsen become more dark and realistic as the years go
on so the second Act was filled with a lot more drama. However, the
show was not only fun, but informative. It was interesting to see first
hand all the similarities between each ending. the experience that I
had today is something that you could not get, usually, unless you
watched all of Ibsen's plays in there entirety. i enjoyed this show and
thought that the Neo-Futursits did a great job as playing multiply
Ibsen characters. It was a very creative concept and an engaging
performance.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

None. it was interesting, but not very marketable.

Fucking Ibsen Takes Time

2005-08-29T13:37:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Fucking Ibsen Takes Time
RUNNING TIME: 2h
VENUE: The SOHO Playhouse
GENRE: Comedy
AIR CONDITIONED: yes
INTERMISSION: yes (10 minutes)
RATING (0-4): 3

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

Fucking Ibsen Takes time was hysterical. The concept was very unique
taking the leading characters from three of Ibsen's plays (Hedda
Gabler, A Doll's House, and Ghost) and placing them all under the same
roof. Direct lines from each of the plays were intermingled with
freshly written lines as the characters both acted out their own
stories and intermingled with each others. The actors were so
professional and funny, they all really had a tight gasp on who their
characters was. There was also a "stranger" who was mistaken for three
different characters, one from each play. His real identity is revealed
at the end, to a roar of laughter form the audience. If you like Ibsen
this play is definitely for you. However, even if you don't know who
Ibsen is, you can enjoy this play. The story that is created in itself
is hysterical, you will miss some of the jokes, though, if you do not
at least one of Ibsen's three play used in this piece. I being a fan of
Ibsen, thought that it was a brilliant piece of theatre. Definitely go
see this one.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I see it having Off-Off Broadway potential. Especially for the theatre
loves this one is a keeper.

The Magnificent Hour

2005-08-29T13:35:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: The Magnificent Hour
RUNNING TIME: 1h 15m
VENUE: The Theatre at the Center for Architecture
GENRE: Comedy
AIR CONDITIONED: yes
INTERMISSION: no
RATING (0-4): 2

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

The Magnificent Hour was a sketch comedy type play that centered
around the concept that the United States government legalized murder
for one hour. The play played out in real time and used audience
participation through flash cards written by audience members stating
different creative murders and murder weapons. The show as pretty good.
The concept was extremely unique and the actors were all very committed
to their multiply roles. The program was also really interesting,
having the magnificent hour application within the program. It was an
enjoyable show to watch for what it was. The concept was clever, the
actors were good, and it made me laugh.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

None

Dark Deception: The Seance Experience

2005-08-29T13:34:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Dark Deception: The Seance Experience
RUNNING TIME: 1 h 15m
VENUE: Players Theatre
GENRE: Comedy/Thriller/Seance
AIR CONDITIONED: yes
INTERMISSION: no
RATING (0-4): 3

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

Dark Deception led us through an old fashion seance. From the
beginning our host Todd Robbins gave some history to a traditional
seance and told us that it was all fake from its inception back in the
1800's. The show was so much fun. I wa so nervous to go see the show
because I thought that it was going to be scary, but I was pleasantly
surprised. Robbins had the audience laughing and on the edge of their
seats the entire show. I loved how into it Robbins became, his
alter-ego of a spiritual reverend was so believable. This experience
was a once in a life-time trip into the deceptive world of the seance.
The last 15 minutes were conducted in absolute darkness which made the
whole audience in Robbins' control. By this point of the show, however,
much to my surprise I was not afraid to be in total darkness. I felt
very comfortable and secure which is completely do to the comforting
nature of Robbins. Finally, although Robbins did tell us that the
seance was fake, he is still an amazing talent. He wowed the audience
with small tricks in the beginning of the show which were enough to
blow me away, even before we got to the seance finally. This show was
definitely worth the late night out.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I see it having a possible career on Off-Off Broadway. It's different
and stands out from the other shows in the festival due to the concept
and nature of the topic.

Go - Go Kitty, Go!

2005-08-25T10:25:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Go – Go Kitty, Go!
RUNNING TIME: 1 h 30 m
VENUE: The Lucille Lortel
GENRE: Comedy/Musical
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING: 4

RATING SCALE:
0 Run, don’t walk away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

‘Go – Go Kitty, Go!’ is an homage to the Russ Meyer B-movie genre. The show is replete with sexuality and hilarity. The show boasts an intricate storyline and competent performances by all the cast members. The varied characters all come together to contribute to the hip-ness of the show. The show is very enjoyable and keeps the audience engaged throughout.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I hope ‘Go – Go Kitty, Go!’ goes far.

A Lesbian in the Pantry

2005-08-25T00:27:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: A Lesbian in The Pantry
RUNNING TIME: 55m
VENUE: Players Theatre
GENRE: Musical Comedy
AIR CONDITIONED: yes
INTERMISSION: no
RATING (0-4): 1

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

A Lesbian in the Pantry was trying to make some sort of metaphor that Ijust didn't get. I think it was saying that religion is fake and peopleare real. Or maybe that's just my brain trying to make sense of thisshow. The concept is completely ridiculous. It seems to be an absurdattempt to create deeper meaning in the most meaningless way possible.I found that I was bored within the first few minutes and it just gotworst as the show went on. The plot was as follows, mother gets madthat daughter sees lesbian in the pantry, daughter gets sent to herroom and upon finding prayer books decides to recite all of them,mother bakes cake and wanting frosting goes down to pantry, motherfinds dead lesbian, daughter vows never to pray again, they cover upthe lesbian and eat dinner in her name. There was also a touching partabout her father or brother, I wasn't sure which, but that was pushedquickly under the rug. I felt that there was no resolution to thisopera of sorts, seeing that most of the words were sung not spoken. Thevoices of the two woman was the only thing I liked about thisproduction, they have long futures a head of them, however I can notsay the same for this play.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

None

Swimming Upstream

2005-08-25T00:18:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Swimming Upstream: A Sex-Ed Escapade Of Genetic Proportions
RUNNING TIME: 1h 40m
VENUE: Players Theatre
GENRE: Musical Comedy
AIR CONDITIONED: yes
INTERMISSION: no
RATING (0-4): 4

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

Swimming Upstream is your classic boy meets girl story with a healthclass project, a scary wrestler, some amazing voices, and a play called'Sperm: The Musical' thrown in. I loved it. The story at first Ithought was a little cheesy, but as soon as I heard the cast sing allmy fears went away. To fully enjoy this play you have to release yourinner teenager and embrace this quirky cast of characters performingbrilliant and funny lyrics to subjects in the same tune as 'She's AllThat' and 'Can't Hardly Wait.' The subject matter walked the linebetween being too sexual for the younger audiences and being justenough humor for everyone to enjoy. I was blown away by the voices of Doug Kreeger and Jessica-Snow Wilson who played the ingenue couple. If I closed my eyes it felt like I was watching the newest show to hit theBroadway stage, not sitting a fringe festival show. This cast, as awhole, made this the best musical I have seen in the fringe this year. It's funny and provocative but still keeps things seemingly innocent. This cast has a long life ahead of them!

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I see this show definitely going to Off-Off Broadway or Off-Broadwayafter the fringe. It's about time somebody created a musical for theteen and adolescent crowd that is fun and engaging for the adults whilestill being mildly inappropriate.

Treaty 321

2005-08-24T12:20:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Treaty 321
RUNNING TIME: 2 h
VENUE: The Lucille Lortel
GENRE: Comedy/Musical
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING: 3

RATING SCALE:
0 Run, don’t walk away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

‘Treaty 321’ is a satiric, socio-political musical comedy of war-strained life and love. I enjoyed the play immensely. The character of the narrator, played by Bob Barth, is most memorable. The play opens with the narrator sitting on his recliner with a can of beer in hand, as he recounts the life of the hero, Peter Lacrosse following his enlistment in the German Army, embarking for battle with neighbouring nation Plebeia after its supposed violation of the all-important Treaty 321.

Bob, with his easy demeanor, casually flinging his humorous lines at the audience makes an impression from scene one. To prove his point that narration is indeed an onerous task Bob challenges the play’s protagonist Lacrosse to take on the role of the narrator during Act Two of the play. Needless to say Lacrosse doesn’t succeed (and I couldn’t wait for Bob to take back the controls).

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

Certainly has possibilities as an off-Broadway play.

Surviving David

2005-08-24T12:12:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Surviving David
RUNNING TIME: 1 h 10 m
VENUE: The Flea Theatre
GENRE: Comedy/Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No
RATING: 3

RATING SCALE:
0 Run, don’t walk away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

The play is a true story based on Kathryn Graf’s (writer/performer) life after her husband (actor David Graf, Police Academy) suddenly died of a heart attack at the age of 51. Kathryn Graf performs the roles of her husband, her two children, and as herself.

The play is well written and Kathryn recreates her life on stage enthusiastically and realistically. It is heartfelt and true to life. We can most certainly empathize with her emotions and her grief. She reflects many of our own bizarre thoughts and awkwardness when subjected to immense turmoils and catastrophes (like losing a loved one). It brings us face-to-face with our own insecurities and selfishness in trying times.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

The play possibly has a future off–off Broadway.

Ponzi Man

2005-08-24T11:57:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Ponzi Man
RUNNING TIME: 2 h
VENUE: The Connelly Theatre
GENRE: Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: Yes
RATING (0-4): 1

RATING SCALE:
0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

Ponzi Man centers around a family full of dysfunction and drama. The show has a Jerry Springer esque quality to it with potential incest, jail time, thievery, failing relationships, and ultimately misplaced love. However, even with these qualities Ponzi Man is a serious drama tackling many strong and tough family issues. I liked the premise of the show, but there were definitely some flaws. The actors seemed rushed at times and they seemed to be upstaging themselves. I wasn?t sure if that was the exact staging and if so, why the director might want that effect. I understand it was to create different rooms, but it did get confusing after awhile. The show is good but it definitely needs some cleaning.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

Possible future after Off-Off Broadway, but it need some cleaning up.

Gift

2005-08-24T11:54:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Gift
RUNNING TIME:1 h
VENUE:P.S 122
GENRE:Dramatic Comedy
AIR-CONDITIONED : Yes
INTERMISSION: No
RATING (0-4):4

RATING SCALE:
0 Run, dont walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just Hype
4 Dont miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

Gift centered around three homosexual men. Two of the men were in a dysfunctional relationship, caused mostly because one of the partner never came out of the bathroom, and the third man was the ?GIFT?. The ?sane? member of the relationship bought his boyfriend another man to sleep with as a present for his birthday in an attempt to coax him out of the bathroom. He succeeds, but as soon as his lover exits the bathroom he sees himself in the mirror and beings to go crazy, seeing the young boy, ?his present? only makes things worse. The back and forth discussion/flight between the two lovers goes on with the poor boy caught in the middle. The actors seem to be very committed to their characters. The show was very funny and kept my attention throughout the entire piece. The show also spans generation gaps both I and my daughter was laughing a lot.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

N/A

Tarot Reading

2005-08-24T11:51:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: TAROT READING: Love, Sex, and Mommy
RUNNING TIME: 1h
VENUE: Collective: Unconsious
GENRE: Comedy/Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes (until the show started)
INTERMISSION: No
RATING (0-4): 3

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

TAROT READING: Love, Sex, and Mommy standing apart from some of the other one woman shows through originality and impeccable comic timing. The show follows a young woman stressed by the demands of her family who seeks out a Tarot Card reader for help. The Tarot Reader is projected on a screen behind the young woman and with each flip of the card another life story is born. The young woman is an amazing actor with both comic and dramatic potential. The way she tells her stories pulls in the audience and her whimsical nature keeps them glued to her performance. What a great show.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I definitely see this show making a run on Off-Off Broadway. I can definitely compete with the other one woman shows that have cropped up at the years Fringe NYC.

Comedy of Terrors

2005-08-24T11:45:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Comedy of Terrors
RUNNING TIME: 1 h 30 m
VENUE: The Village Theatre
GENRE: Comedy
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: RATING (0-4): 1

RATING SCALE:
0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

When I went to this show I was very excited about its possible connect to Shakespeare's comedy Of Errors and I hoped that I was in for a funny show, I was definitely wrong. The cast of young actors did what they could with the piece, but it was far from brilliant. The simple concept had a 'children's show' quality about it and I believe this was a little demeaning to the college students that were in the show. The plot of the production was basically that a young boy was sent to Hell to learn a lesson. When he arrives it is realized that Satan has been missing for a year and all the demons begin to attempt to secure the power of Hell for themselves. The play had me a little captivated at this moment, however that all went away when in 'happy ending' style Satan came back and set Hell back into order teaching the young boy that Sin is bad. It was a bit too moralistic for me, bridging on cheesy. I commend the young actors, but do not recommend the show.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

None

Letter from Poland

2005-08-24T11:43:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Letter From Poland
RUNNING TIME: 1h
VENUE: Collective: Cabaret
GENRE: Comedy (w/ a bit of drama)
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No
RATING (0-4): 3

RATING SCALE:
0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

I went into Letter From Poland expecting sad tales of Nazi war camps,only because that's what the title implies, but I was pleasantlysurprised by the actual show. It delved a bit into the world of theatreand it told a true life story. It is very hard for an actor to playthemselves in a real situation that they experienced along the courseof their lives. But that is what writer/performer Michael Doyle does.He tells the story of his time in Poland, on grant to study differentforms of theatre; however, he never actually gets to begin his studiesbecause soon after arriving in Poland he is snowed into his hostelwith a broken ankle. He begins to become restless fearing that he willloose his grant money and starts to develop cabin fever due to his lackof contact with other people. His saving grace is a group of nuns whoarrive at the hostel and ask him to direct a play for them. Doyle helpsthem in hopes that this play will get him back his grant money. Theyperform the play "The Good Samaritan," appropriately titled due to thecircumstances, and one of the nuns leaves a letter for Doyle to send tothe people who issued his grant telling them to reinstate his grantmoney. Through the letter we learn that the play will be performed inAfrica as part of the nuns’ missionary work to stop the spread of AIDS.This play teaches us that you never know how much a small act ofkindness can really mean to people. It is almost in the same tune asthe movie "Pay it Forward". Further, Doyle does a great job atportraying himself, which is again far more difficult than most peopleimagine. This show is uplifting and fun. It stands out form a lot ofthe shows for this reason. I really liked this show and a recommend itas a break from all the tragedy plaguing the Festival and the world.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I see this show having a run on Off-Off Broadway. Out of the one manshows I have seen thus far this one far surpasses the others. I hope tosee it picked up, it has a good message and that is something we allneed right now.

BEWARE OF DOG

2005-08-23T11:36:00.001-07:00

SHOW TITLE: BEWARE OF DOG
RUNNING TIME: 0h 55 m
VENUE: Performance space 122
GENRE: Comedy Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: yes
INTERMISSION: no

RATING (0-4): 3

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster.
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

This play follows in the thread of absurdity. It tells a very simple story of girl meets boy, boy tries to marry girl, boy becomes frustrated with family, boy leaves, girl is married to a man in a mask who is actually a dog, boy fights for girl, boy wins, boy marries girl. Simple right! But I loved watching this play because it was different. It's not everyday that you see an absurdist play done well. I was enthused by the shadow puppetry which was incorporated into the plot of the show. Absurdist theatre is not for everyone, but if your looking for something unique and diiferent than check out BEWARE OF DOG.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

None. But still a great performance.

The Last Cowboy

2005-08-23T11:36:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: The Last Black Cowboy
RUNNING TIME: 45 m
VENUE: Linhart Theatre at 440 Studios
GENRE: Spoken Word/Poetry
AIR CONDITIONED: No
INTERMISSION: No

RATING: 2

RATING SCALE:
0 Run, don’t walk away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

The play tries hard to capture the attention of the audience and does succeed in spurts. The performance by the lead actor may be described in a similar fashion. The subject matter is relentlessly serious but not gripping enough. The material/performances don’t really move you.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

Perhaps with a little more re-working of the play and a different performer it might have a chance.

Crossing Currents

2005-08-23T11:33:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Crossing Currents
RUNNING TIME: 1h 42m
VENUE: The Mazer Theatre
GENRE: Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION:

RATING (0-4): 2

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

This show, like many others in the fringe, tackle social and political issues plaguing the United States today. This play, however, pulls away from the current war in Iraq --which many plays have focused on-- and discusses conflicts with Cuba. There are many story lines in this play and a lot of short broken scenes. One story follows a young boy, whose mother died in her search for freedom, and his battle between staying in the US or going back to his father in Cuba. This is seemingly ripped right from the head lines. The stories were good, but I had a lot of trouble following the action in the play because it was very hard to hear the actors. Being that they were young, it seems that they did not have voice training in enunciation and projection. I wish I could have heard them better I might have enjoyed the show more than I did. But with all the political shows in the Fringe this year, this play's lack of clarity, caused it not to stand out in my mind.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

With more work and possibly re-casting I could see this show making some kind of run in New York.

BYUIOO

2005-08-23T10:32:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: BYUIOO
RUNNING TIME: 1 h 15 m
VENUE: The Mazer Theatre
GENRE: Musical
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION:

RATING (0-4): 3

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

This play was so much fun. It was based on the story of The Jungle Book, but it was a musical done in a gibberish language. It was so interesting to watch a show that no one in the audience could understand verbally, but that was still understood visually. Further, it is such a challenge for an actor to rely on physicalization, only, to portray a story. This play was great for both adults and children, it's quite the family affair.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I can see this show having a run on Off-Off Broadway. It is fun and enjoyable with a lot of challenges for the actor. Further, the play has a wide audience range which is always a good thing.

PIPE DREAM

2005-08-23T10:24:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Pipe Dream
RUNNING TIME: 1 h 45 m
VENUE: The Flea (Downstairs)
GENRE: Comedy
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 1

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

This show falls into the plethora of one-woman shows in this years Fringe Festival NYC. It tells the tragic yet funny story of a woman growing up with odd parents and family values. Most of the one woman show addresses these same topics, however, this show was not as intriguing. It was so long that I had trouble following what was happening. The more successful shows just pulled excerpts from the true life of the performers and ended in about an hour. This show just rambled on about her life story without much rhyme or reason.

Dalton Trumbo's JOHNNY GOT HIS GUN

2005-08-23T10:19:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Dalton Trumbo's JOHNNY GOT HIS GUN
RUNNING TIME: 1 hour
VENUE: Ace Theatre
GENRE: Drama
AIR-CONDITIONED : Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 3

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just Hype
4 Don't miss this one it's FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

Overall I believe the show was a 3, this performance in paticular may have been closer to a 2. There are a lot of war themed dramas at this summers Fringe, but Johnny Got His Gun paints a realistic and graphic picture of a young soldier badly wounded in war. The writing was amazingly accurate being humorous, touching, and graphic all while still keeping its inoccence. It was incredible how Dalton Trumbo's writing securely depicted the lost of innocence and life even in those still living. The only part of the show that left me a bit unimpressed was the choice of casting. It was a one man show, which calls for a very strong actor in both presence and voice. The particular actor I saw tonight had neither. However, he did capture the characters innocence and at times was believable, especially in flashback. During the high energy, dramatic points of the play though, he lacked resonance, always staying breathy causing him to be a bit hard to hear. I was hoping the actor would have more power and presence. I believed his words, but not his emotion.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I hope this show is picked up and goes somewhere. The subject matter is prevalent and highly important to society, especially today. The writing was so true and eloquent I would hate for it it be lost.

Icarus

2005-08-23T09:56:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Icarus
RUNNING TIME: 45 m
VENUE: The Linhart Theater
GENRE: Dance
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes (barely)
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 2

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

I thought that the dancing was amazing they all had incredible flexability. The story line was hard to follow, though I was able tounderstand the concept due to knowing bits and pieces of the story ofIcarus. The set design was also very cool incorporating video images and three white canvases to create a very creepy, yet beautiful effect. If you like good modern dance you will like this show.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

None

My Pony's in the Garage

2005-08-23T09:52:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: My Pony's in the Garage
RUNNING TIME: 1 hour
VENUE: Collective: Unconsious
GENRE: Comedy
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 3

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

I thought this shows great. It was written and acted by one woman who's life was full of comic situations. Her timing was point on and after a while it seemed like she was just talking to the audience rather than acting for us. The stories were so realistic yet crazy that everyone could relate to this production. I was laughing out loud. She also ended on a very somber note with the death of her mother. But through just an hour of words I could understand how much love--even through all the dysfunction-- their family truly had. What an amazing life story.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I see this definatley moving forward after the fringe festival is over. Her heartfelt and funny portrayal of her family is something everyone can realate to and something that I truly hope she has an oportunity to share with many others.

seduction...

2005-08-23T09:46:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: seduction...
RUNNING TIME: 1 h 40 m
VENUE: Players Theatre
GENRE: Dramatic Comedy
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 3

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

I thought that this play delving into the sexual life of seduction in the homosexual community was honest and professional. It seemed honestto me because it did not always paint the homosexual community in the best light and it didn't always paint it badly either. The play shows each situation from all sides and I think that that is commendable. I found it professional from the stand point that it was the most tightly acted piece I've seen so far. I forgot I was watching a fringe festival show. Also, the nude scenes were not done without there being a reason behind it. In staying with the honesty they took many risks. I liked the show and would definitely recommend it. I do caution those, however, that are not comfortable with no holds bar homosexual/sexual context and male nudity that this may be too much for you. But for everyone else, go and enjoy the show.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I see this show making a run on Off-Off Broadway pulling in the same type of audience that might see Naked Boys Singing and all those who just might be a little curious. I see it being a success.

Good Fences Make Good Neighbors

2005-08-23T09:32:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Good Fences Make Good Neighbors
RUNNING TIME: 1 h 15 m
VENUE: Collective: Unconsious
GENRE: Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes (when show started it was turned off)
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 1

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

Good Fences Make Good Neighbors was very well written and the actors were good, however I must have missed something in the metaphor that the writer was trying to get across. The actors were good and had very believable accents, but something about the concept just didn't do it for me. I got lost between what was actually real and what was fake. The play centered around a man who lost his arm, but everyone around him could still see his arm, and therefore didn't believe him. I was still with the play at that point. It was when an elf entered the picture that things started to get hazy. There was no point in the play that I did not believe the actors, however I did have trouble understanding exactlywhat was going on and ultimatley what the play was trying to prove.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

None

Ratface

2005-08-23T09:25:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Ratface
RUNNING TIME: 1 h
VENUE: Collective: Unconsious
GENRE: Comedy
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes (turned off when the play started)
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 3

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

I really liked this show. It was very funny and yet still had some elements of drama. Further, it was a bit chessy and predictable but it seemed to enhance the piece. Sometimes plays are supposed to have a cheesy kind of stereotypical quality about them, but some cases the actor must take risks in order for every action to seem logical. That is what these actors did-- they took risks with characters and it was so gratifying to watch. The story was about a young boy who tried to commit suicide, but when he fails, instead of being happy he is alive his friends, family, and doctor try to convince him to try again. Each person has their own selfish motives for wanting him to make a second attempt. This play captures each character's motivation as they desperately try to convince Charlie, the boy, to commit suicide again. However, the truth behind their motivation does not surface until close to the end of the play.The writing is hysterical and the actors are committed. I loved this show!

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I see this making a lucrative run on Off-Off Broadway. I also see this show sprouting up in colleges around the country in the next few years.It gives actors a chance to develop strong, unique characters, that is always fun to watch.

Love is in the Air

2005-08-22T13:13:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Love is in the Air
RUNNING TIME: 1h 0m
VENUE: The Mazer Theatre
GENRE: Comedy/Drama
AIR CONDITIONED : Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 3

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

This silent picture-stylized piece hightlights the techniques of such greats as Charlie Chaplin & Buster Keaton, and tells the story of a young man who has all the un-luck in life & love.

POST FRINGE PRODUCTIONS:

"Love is in the air" definitely adds some "color" to the seemingly drab world of the silent film. This show has great potential.

Dance With Me, Harker

2005-08-22T13:11:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Dance With Me, Harker
RUNNING TIME: 1h 30m
VENUE: The Mazer Theatre
GENRE: National Drama/ Multi-Media
AIR CONDITIONED : Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 1

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

I was really excited to see this play because I'm a horror fan and the advertisement for it made it seem like it was going to be interesting. The aspects of the play I liked the most were the beautiful costumes, dancing, and lighting. Other than that I was not pleased. It was long and boring, like a lot of the Fringe plays I've seen so far. The lead actor loved strutting around the stage like he was some hot, chick magnet. I couldn't even follow it most of the time, maybe from bad writing or being too busy looking at my watch.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I still think the concept of having a play about vampires would be awesome. It needs a much bigger budget and songs to make it work.

Finger love

2005-08-22T13:08:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Finger Love
RUNNING TIME: 45m
VENUE: Dixon Place
GENRE: Local Comedy/Puppetry
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 2

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

The puppets were cute and funny. The play was about how to getting yourself off by using vegetables, feathers, pillows, and of course, your fingers. It was rather silly, but it didn't teach me anything I didn't already know. The talking vulva was my favorite.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I could definitely see it as a useful tool to use for health class.

The True Tragedy of the Mortician

2005-08-22T13:03:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: The True Tragedy of the Mortician
RUNNING TIME: 1h 10m
VENUE: 13th Street Repertory Company
GENRE: Local Comedy/Drama
AIR CONDITIONED : Yes
INTERMISSION: No, unfortunately

RATING (0-4): 0

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

I did not enjoy this play. I felt the pace was very slow and the acting could of been much stronger.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

As it is, I don’t see it going anywhere.

Slow Children

2005-08-22T13:01:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Slow Children
RUNNING TIME: 1h 0m
VENUE: The Players Loft
GENRE: Local Drama
AIR CONDITIONED : Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 2

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

"Slow Children" was about the writer/director/performer's mentally disabled sister. It definitely had it's cute, funny moments, but also had its "slow" moments. Through observing her sister, the performer was really able to become the character. Although I enjoyed most of it and laughed, I felt kind of weird that she was using her mentally disabled sister as entertainment.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

It could go somewhere.

BEAUTIFUL

2005-08-22T12:58:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: BEAUTIFUL
RUNNING TIME: 2h 0m
VENUE: Village Theatre
GENRE: Drama / Musical
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: Yes

RATING (0-4): 4

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

This was really a “beautiful” piece. It was such original music – Stephen Barnett has written gorgeous pop music that gives this musical a soulful and original backbone. The plot is sort of familiar – artist on hard times because of break up, successful friend tries to help him, meets new girl, ex-girlfriend always on his mind, shows up at the wrong moment, boy and new girl end up giving it a shot. There’s a great convention of the ex, who the artist has painted a portrait of, continually being a “live” presence in the room and walking through the portrait to interact with him (he imagines). The acting is fine, the voice of the main actor, David Anders, is phenomenal. The cast of 15 is way too large for the space and unnecessary to the story. This could be (and economically would have to be) pruned back to 8 or 9. There was a huge crowd to see this show – the longest lines I’ve seen yet this year.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I absolutely see a future for this piece. I hope it continues toward an Off-Broadway production.

THE INFORMATION SHE CARRIED

2005-08-22T12:57:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: THE INFORMATION SHE CARRIED
RUNNING TIME: 1h 45m
VENUE: 440 Studios
GENRE: Comedy / Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: They said it was on – but it didn’t feel like it!
INTERMISSION: Yes

RATING (0-4): 1

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

This was my first “What the heck was that about?” show of the Fringe. I was totally game for the whole first act and most of the second and then it ended and I just sat in my seat wondering what had just happened. The design of the show was very ramshackle and confusing and the direction did not help unravel the leaps in time and distinctions between reality and delusions. I have no idea what it was really about.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I don’t think this has a future, but I think the playwright has some talent; I’d like to believe the direction was the culprit here…

A DIFFERENT WOMAN: A TRUE STORY OF A TEXAS CHILDHOOD

2005-08-22T12:54:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: A DIFFERENT WOMAN: A TRUE STORY OF A TEXAS CHILDHOOD
RUNNING TIME: 1h 30m
VENUE: Collective: Cabaret
GENRE: Comedy / Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 3

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

This is a one-woman story of the true life of a woman growing up in a hard knock family in the early 1900’s in Texas. It’s a fascinating story very well told by Veronica Russell. In a tiny space with little to no action, she held my attention for a straight hour and a half. That’s good stuff.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

This could definitely continue as a small regional show.

WORD INFIRMA: THE CRIMINAL

2005-08-22T12:52:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: WORD INFIRMA: THE CRIMINAL
RUNNING TIME: 1h 15m
VENUE: The Flea
GENRE: Drama / Performance Art
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 3

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

I was surprised that this was a one man show, I had imagined it was multiple actors – however, Perri Yaniv did a wonderful job of not only collecting this dialogue from prisoners and prison employees in Missouri, but he played each character as well. There is something very academic about both the presentation and the performance however, and I was not surprised to find that this had been Mr. Yaniv’s thesis project. I wish there was some kind of framing device on the piece so you knew what you were seeing before it was over and you could read the program notes. On a performance note, some of the characterizations were not easily distinguished from each other so at times you weren’t sure who was speaking, but overall, this was a meaningful and thoughtful piece.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

Could continue to evolve. Needs more structure and a thoroughly unifying line.

SARAJEVO'S CHILD

2005-08-22T12:44:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: SARAJEVO'S CHILD
RUNNING TIME: 1h 0m
VENUE: Connelly Theatre
GENRE: Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 3

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

Since this show was about the true journey of Nadja Halilbegovich, who fled her homeland during the Bosnian War and recorded it in her diary, I had expected this to be a one woman show – so I was surprised that the cast consisted of 5 people, each of whom took on the first person while delivering passages from the woman’s diary. It was nicely directed, but I often tire of watching adults “play” children. An enthralling story and touching ending. A modern Anne Frank, with a much better ending. This was also one of the best set designs I’ve ever seen in a Fringe show. It was very simple, but clean and clear and beautiful and used the space very well. The direction was very clever and innovative for a play that really had very few textual directions. One actress, Lisa Lemley, stood out as exceptional. The sound design was also quite good.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

Would love to read this diary. Should be a regionally produced play or an educational touring production.

THE GREAT AMERICAN SUBWAY MUSICAL

2005-08-22T12:39:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: THE GREAT AMERICAN SUBWAY MUSICAL
RUNNING TIME: 1h 10m
VENUE: Players Theatre
GENRE: Comedy/Musical
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 3

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

This show was thoroughly enjoyable. The ensemble acting was just ok, the singing was average, the songs weren’t really fully developed and the plot meandered a bit, but the performance by writer/lead actor Victor Verhaeghe was so hilarious and engaging that I was laughing the whole time.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

Probably not going far, but I’m going to keep my eye on Victor Verhaeghe and see whatever he does in the future!

THE BANGER'S FLOPERA- A MUSICAL PERVERSION

2005-08-22T12:36:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: THE BANGER’S FLOPERA – A MUSICAL PERVERSION
RUNNING TIME: 2h 30m
VENUE: Village Theatre
GENRE: Musical / Comedy
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: Yes

RATING (0-4): 0

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

I was shocked at how horrendously bad this show was. I had never seen a Kirk Wood Bromley play and had been disappointed I didn’t see Lost last year. This show was one big teenage boy fuck fantasy, albeit modeled after the Three Penny Opera. All about porn stars, “fuck gods”, horny cheerleaders and unnecessary violence. And not a bit of it is titillating. Also, I don’t have any idea why this is classified as a musical comedy – because unless it’s funny that the main character (“the fuck god”) keeps forgetting his high school cheerleading plaything’s name, there’s nothing comic about this at all. Especially the end where the homeless street singer goes to the electric chair (not because he committed a crime, but because he was volunteered by the crowd to take someone else’s place) and one of the chorus girls (who had no lines until this moment) decides she can be famous too if she’s fucking him as he gets electrocuted. Fun for the whole family.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

Unfortunately (and sort of unbelievably), this show will be presented at the New York Musical Theatre Festival. I hope it dies a quiet death after that.

HERCULES IN HIGH SUBURBIA

2005-08-22T12:34:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: HERCULES IN HIGH SUBURBIA
RUNNING TIME: 1h 15m
VENUE: Mazer theatre
GENRE: Comedy
AIR CONDITIONED : Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 0

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS: N/A

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS: N/A

EMILY DICKENSONGS

2005-08-22T12:31:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: EMILY DICKENSONGS
RUNNING TIME: 40m
VENUE: P.S. 122
GENRE: Dance
AIR CONDITIONED : Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 0

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

If they had not had the Emily Dickenson in the title they would have had no audience at all. Not in the least about Emily Dickenson or her writing.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

N/A

THE MISS EDUCATION OF JENNA BUSH

2005-08-22T12:27:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: THE MISS EDUCATION OF JENNA BUSH
RUNNING TIME: 1h 30m
VENUE: The Village Theatre
GENRE: Comedy
AIR CONDITIONED : Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 4

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

Close to the best thing I've seen at the Fringe (next to SILENCE!). Melissa Rauch is adorable and the writing stays clever the whole way through!

My Father's Son

2005-08-22T12:19:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: My Father's Son
RUNNING TIME: 1h 15m
VENUE: Players Loft
GENRE: Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: No (they had fans)
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 3

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

My Father's Son tells the story of two boys who are abandoned by theirmother and beaten by their father. This touching ad brutally dramatictale delves into an older brother who vows to protect his youngerbrother, and a younger brother who beats himself up on the insidebecause he is afraid of is life and scared of what he is. The olderbrother, Jonah, watched as his five year older little brother, Scottwas beaten by his father. From that day forward he pledged to keepScott from ever feeling his father's wrath again. Scott is unaware ofhis brother's projection until later in the play, however, his strugglestarts very early on in the dialogue when he is faced head on with hisown sexuality. He is unsure of whether he likes his friend Will becausehe is himself a homosexual or whether he just likes to feel a touchthat is soft. This question is also answered, very dramatically, laterin the play. This drama reminded me of plays such as A View from theBridge, and Death of a Salesman. The writer and director were able tocapture the same emotional over drive that is so prevalent in plays doeby authors such as Arthur Miller. I loved it. The actors were amazingas well. They faced hard subject matter head on, o holding back ad norunning away from hard hitting emotions. Congratulations are in order for this one!

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I definitely see this production going to either off-off Broadway, or
Off-Broadway. It is well written and successfully dramatic. I can't wait to see where this show goes!

God's Waiting Room

2005-08-22T12:15:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: God's Waiting Room
RUNNING TIME: 1h 10m
VENUE: P.S. 122 Downstairs
GENRE: Dramatic
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 3

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

This show was great. It not only brought the audience into theperformance but it made us like characters in the show, producing notrace of a fourth wall. The play focused on four people waiting for God to judge them. The set consisted of a rack of clear dry cleanerbags a large square piece of grass and a chair placed at each corner.Every time someone stepped inside the grassy area they would relive ascene in their lives. All four characters were connected to each otherthrough marriage, betrayal, and employment, and they all died together. They seemed to be stuck in this purgatory like setting throughoutmost of the performance until they were ready to come to terms withtheir own deaths. The script was witty, but far more intelligent anddramatic than some I have witnessed thus far in the festival. They had an interesting way of showing true humor through just circumstancerather than creating funny situations. Great concept, Talented cast!

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I truly hope this show gets picked up. It teaches us about lifewithout being preachy. I loved the concept and the direction, as wellas the acting and the story. I see this show going a long away.

Soiree DADA

2005-08-22T12:10:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Soiree DADA: Neue Weltaffen
RUNNING TIME: 1h 0m
VENUE: P.S. 122 Downstairs
GENRE: Comedy
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 4

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

This show is hard to explain, as any good DADA is, but if wasentertaining while at the same time still projection large societalproblems. As it states in the program DADA is a reaction to what ismeaningless and absurd, such as the needless war plaguing our countryat the present moment. Even though the subject matter was heavy and attimes a bit frightening the DADAist had me laughing continuously attheir antics. Perfect comic and dramatic timing, beautifullyillustrated characters and numerous moments for audience participationmade this one unique and fascinating trip through the world of DADA! A+

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I greatly hope that this show is picked up. Not only is it an art form that should be celebrated not hidden, but thus performance in particularwas so enlightening while still making me laugh. I loved it and Iwould love to have an opportunity to see it again in New York City.

Shutter

2005-08-22T12:07:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Shutter
RUNNING TIME: 1h 20m
VENUE: Performance Space 122
GENRE: Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 0

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

I found this show to be very confusing. I have no idea what it was about. It seemed like it would never end.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I don't think it will go very far.

Velocity of Things

2005-08-19T09:37:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: BYUIOO
RUNNING TIME: 1 h 15 m
VENUE: The Mazer Theatre
GENRE: Musical
AIR CONDITIONED: yes
INTERMISSION:

RATING (0-4): 3

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

This play was so much fun. It was based on the story of The Jungle Book, but it was a musical all doe in a gibberish language. It was so interesting to watch a show that no one in the audience could understand verbally, but that was still understood visually. Further, it is such a challenge for an actor to rely on physicalization, only, to portray a story. This play was great for both adults and children, it’s quite the family affair.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I can see this show having on run on Off-Off Broadway. It is fun and enjoyable with a lot of challenges to the actor. Further, it play has a wide audience range which is always a good thing.

Weight

2005-08-19T09:35:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Weight
RUNNING TIME: 1 hour and 5 minutes
VENUE: 13th Street Repertory Theatre
GENRE: National Comedy, Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4):2

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

Weight has been the only play out of seven I've seen that I have liked. The acting was amazing. I truly thought I was watching a 500 pound black woman on stage, even though the actress is a 140 pound white woman. She is excellent at accents and becoming the character. The different stories told, centered around a woman who has a weight issue, are all compelling and several people, including me, were crying.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

Weight could definitely be a successful off-off broadway play.

Trash

2005-08-19T08:24:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Trash
RUNNING TIME: 1h 5m
VENUE: Access Theater
GENRE: National Comedy
AIR CONDITIONED: A little
INTERMISSION: no

RATING (0-4): 1

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one, its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

Okay, I went into this thinking it was a comedy – that’s how it’s advertised. Trash is more like a drama. Don’t go in thinking silly hillbillies. The main struggle is a man suffering from AIDS, and how he and his girlfriend deal with it and move on with life. I saw an understudy play the old man Winters, so maybe it would have played out differently with another actor, but I felt it was definitely more dramatic than comedic. The young actor and actress did a good job.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

None

Layla’s Sahra

2005-08-19T08:21:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Layla’s Sahra
RUNNING TIME: 1h 0m
VENUE: The Linhart Theater @ 440 Studios
GENRE: Comedy/Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes, a little
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 1

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one, its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

This play is basically a “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” rip off, but not as funny. Nothing was standout to me, and the play ended very abrubtively. I personally didn’t feel that it was written very well. It felt like a community theatre performance to me. The big sahra party at the end was unrealistic because we could only see some peanuts on a table and five people dancing around onstage. The set was very bland.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

None

Match Me

2005-08-18T12:51:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Match Me
RUNNING TIME: 40 min
VENUE: Mazur Theatre
GENRE: Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 1

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

There is an interesting premise behind this play, but the audience soon figures out where it’s headed and from then on it’s just a shriek-fest as the two actresses play out the melodramatic conclusion.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

The playwright may have a good play in him – this isn’t it.

Half Life

2005-08-18T09:19:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Half Life
RUNNING TIME: 1h 30m
VENUE: The Flea Theatre
GENRE: Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 4

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one, its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

I doubt there is a better drama in the Fringe. The acting was excellent, the direction great, and the script intelligent. I was completely absorbed in the story the whole time, waiting to see what would happen to the characters next. I had goosebumbs at then. And hey, the teenager is the girl from the “My Girl” movies.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I could definitely see this having a run after the Fringe.

Magician

2005-08-18T09:17:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Magician
RUNNING TIME: 1h
VENUE: The Flea Theater
GENRE: Comedy/Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 2

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one, its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

Magician was okay. The idea is cute, and it was funny at first, but the story soon became repetitive and very predictable. The two actresses did a great job, but I wasn’t crazy about the play itself. I didn’t like the parts when the play tried to be overly dark and dramatic.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

Not really.

Out of Body and Out of Mind

2005-08-18T08:48:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Out of Body and Out of Mind
RUNNING TIME: 1 hour
VENUE: The Connelly Theatre
GENRE: Comedy
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes - it was freezing!
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4):0

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

This play is too clever for it's own good. It can't settle on what it wants to be. It's about iPods -- but all I saw was eyes nod.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

None.

The Metaphysics of Breakfast

2005-08-17T11:37:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: The Metaphysics of Breakfast
RUNNING TIME: 45 min
VENUE: The SOHO Playhouse
GENRE: Dramatic Comedy
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 3

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4Don’t miss this one, it’s FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

The Metaphysics of Breakfast follows a young woman's life soon afterthe death of her husband. Parallels are continuously drawn between herlife and metaphors about breakfast and figure skating. The play allowedpeople to view both what was going on in each scene and what was goingthrough the woman's head. One of the best parts of the show was thetwo ensemble members. They played a variety of roles and each just asbelievable as the one before it. The play was full of witty lines andcomedic banter, but fell short of capturing the drama of the piece.The lead actress' voice and facial expressions lent themselvesperfectly to the comedy, but was not believable in the dramaticportions of the play. For this reason the production fell a bit shortof its full potential. However, it was a great show, a good choicefor mother's and daughters.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

After the fringe I see this show being picked up by the OOB circuit. Itwill also, more than likely, show up on the college radar in thenear future. The only way I see this show breaking into OB is if a bigname is put into the show to draw more press.

Fluffy Bunnies in a Field of Daisies

2005-08-17T11:34:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Fluffy Bunnies in a Field of Daisies
RUNNING TIME: 2 h 15 min
VENUE: The SOHO Playhouse
GENRE: Comedy
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: Yes

RATING (0-4): 4

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one, it’s FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

FLUFFY BUNNIES followed a group of four friends and there struggle to findlove, or someone to sleep with. The play was so lively and natural.At times I forgot that I was watching a play that had a script becausethe actions seemed so casual and spontaneous. I believe part of thiscame from the fact that it seemed that parts of the show were sketchcomedy. The script appeared to be always open for a spur of the momentchange. The actors were unfazed by blunders and worked each mishap ormistake into the dialogue. To me this play is reminiscent of "I LoveYou, You Are Perfect, Now Change," only the non-musical variety. "I loveYou, You Are Perfect, Now Change," shows the lives of already marriedcouples, FLUFFY BUNNIES showed what happened before you settle down.It gave an accurate depiction of what people go through while searchingfor someone to be with. This is the type of show that young adults andtheir parents can both enjoy together equally. I recommend this showfor anyone who has ever been in a relationship, or at lease thoughtthey were.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

After the Fringe I see this show being picked up by the OB or Broadwaycircuits. The production is one that can be enjoyed by many differentgenerations, which is beneficial and highly profitable when marketing a show.

The Friar and the Nurse

2005-08-17T11:30:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: The Friar and the Nurse
RUNNING TIME: 1h 15m
VENUE: The Players Loft
GENRE: National Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: No
INTERMISSION: No
RATING (0-4): 2

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one, it’s FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

"The Friar and The Nurse” is a delightful and creative spin on the unknown private lives of Shakespeare’s Nurse and Friar from “Romeo and Juliet”. The concept is imaginative and fun to follow, with humorous undertones. This drama will make you see the Nurse and Friar in a whole new light. (I also like the stage hand dressed as a medieval monk!)

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I don’t see it going that far in New York theatres after Fringe, but with a little molding you never know!

Kegedawan (The Gift)

2005-08-17T11:27:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Kegedawan (The Gift)
RUNNING TIME: 1h 30m
VENUE: The Conelly Theatre
GENRE: Local Clown/Mask, Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 1

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one, its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

I can see how the novel this play is based on would be an inspiring read, but the story didn’t translate to stage as well as it could have. I liked the idea of the cast wearing masks, but the “jungle dances” that the ensemble broke into were cheesy.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

None

The Mayor Who Would Be Sondheim

2005-08-17T11:22:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: The Mayor Who Would be Sondheim
RUNNING TIME: 2 h 15 min
VENUE: Mazer Theatre
GENRE: Play (Comedy)
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: Yes

RATING (0-4): 0

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

A lofty (albeit somewhat clever) idea to write a comedic play about current politics in East Orange, NJ centering on a Mayor who re-writes the lyrics to popular show tunes to describe the political situation of the moment. Unfortunately, it fails.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

None

The Lightning Field

2005-08-17T11:16:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: The Lightning Field
RUNNING TIME: 1 h 30 min
VENUE: Flea Theatre GENRE: Play (Drama)
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 4

RATING SCALE :

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

Well-written, well-directed, well-acted, well-produced. Well-done! Do not miss! However, please note this production contains nudity and sexual violence. This production is not for the weak of heart. If discussions of sexual perversion disturb you, do not see this show. On the other hand, if my note of caution has made you think this is a show simply about the sexually perverse, it is not! This is a show about a complicated cross section of relationships between a gay couple and their parents. To say more would make it sound trite, which it is not. Go see it!

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I hope it is picked up! With a couple stars in the older roles, it could play Off-Broadway at the Barrow or even NYTW. I hope we see this one somewhere else.

The Day the World went Queer

2005-08-17T08:45:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: The Day the World Went Queer
RUNNING TIME: 2 h
VENUE: Players Theatre
GENRE: Musical Comedy
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: Yes

RATING (0-4): 2

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

Much better than I expected. Decent songs and funny jokes, many of which you would expect from a show with this title, of course. If it were 80 minutes without an intermission I would have enjoyed it much more (way too long). But if you know someone involved in the production, you should check it out. The performances are fun, especially Jennifer Dorr White as the perky housewife turned Biker Lesbian. If you don’t know someone involved, this is one you can miss.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

A few possibilities for Cabaret revue songs.

SUV: The Musical

2005-08-16T13:27:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: SUV: The Musical
RUNNING TIME: 2 h
VENUE: The Village Theatre
GENRE: Musical Comedy
AIR CONDITIONED : Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 2

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

SUV: The Musical followed a misguided car designer and a wayward environmental activist on their quest to prove their own views of what is right and wrong. The play was filled with witty lines and political humor encapsulated in cheesy song and dance numbers. At parts the cheesiness harkened back to "Urinetown" and at other times fell short of being successful. The incorporation of the crash test dummies, both as stage crew and then later incorporated as characters in the play, proved to be one of the funniest parts of the show. The play however, did fall a bit short when it came to storyline and over all point to the piece. But it was a very funny and witty show, for $15 dollars.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I see this show being picked up by more of a high school or college market. The subject matter is very much prevalent to the youth of America and the overacting necessary to fulfill the demands of this show seem fitting for this market.

You Again: A Musical About Cloning

2005-08-16T13:25:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: You Again: A Musical About Cloning
RUNNING TIME: 2 h 15 m
VENUE: The Village Theatre
GENRE: Musical/Dramadi
AIR CONDITIONED : Yes
INTERMISSION: Yes

RATING (0-4): 0

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

You Again: A Musical About Cloning revolved around a high school of misguided students and their principles attempt to make them better students by cloning. The concept of this show in theory seemed to be a hit, but it was definitely a miss. The show could not keep my interest at all, partly due to the fact that most if not all of the songs were so monotone. There was little to no change in emotion throughout the production. A few actors did shine through the darkness, but it was not enough to save this production.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

This show will most likely drop of the radar as soon as its fringe run is complete. It's only hope is the local community theatre.

A Play With Myself

2005-08-16T13:23:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: A Play With Myself

RUNNING TIME: 1h

VENUE: Ave. Of Clubs (9 Great Jones)
GENRE: Comedy/Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: No
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 1

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don't walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one, its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

"When I was 14, my father accused me of being a whore and a drug addict. I didn't become a whore and a drug addict until I was 19. "
With that opening line, thus begins the one-woman expose of a rock and roll groupie, a grieving daughter, a sex-a-holic, an ignored little girl, a struggling actress, a "Dial-A-Date, a drug addict and a woman deathly afraid of losing her memories like those in her family who preceded her. This is all found in "A Play With Myself."

This play is full of videos, photos, jarring imagery and far more jarring introspection.

It's also a side-line chronicle of one person's "ride" through 80's pop culture--featuring Billy Idol, Howard Stern, Joey Ramone, Nick Cave, Bridget Fonda--some who she claims to have slept with--see the play to find out whom.

Personally, though I appreciate the subject matter and am all about someone spilling their soul for their art...this jumped around a bit too much and left me kind of dizzy at points. I think it could use some restructuring--to tie certain story-lines together more
effectively. It would make the payoff at the end--which really does pay off--more memorable.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

Writer/performer is an amazing talent--if not with this, she will find more success in an already fascinating life.

HELP!

2005-08-15T15:02:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: HELP!
RUNNING TIME: 1h 30m
VENUE: The Linhart Theater at 440 Studios
GENRE: Preformance Art
AIR CONDITIONED : Yes
INTERMISSION: Yes

RATING (0-4): 3

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, dont walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don't miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

Very light and fun. Definitely a show worth seeing, more so if you
classify yourself as anything but “just fine.”

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

This hyperactive, very physical, “out of hand” quartet has great
potential for the New York Theater scene.

The Social Affair

2005-08-15T14:57:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: The Social Affair
RUNNING TIME: 1h 11m
VENUE: Collective Unconscious (279 Church St.)
GENRE:Improv/Sketch/Comedy

AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 3

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one, its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

With “Daily Show” type skits and Batman standup this very funny blend of sketch comedy and improv covers everything from how (not) to make it in the movies to Darth Vader's next job interview.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

These guys are great. Expect to see them around for a long time.

As Much As You Can

2005-08-15T14:42:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: As Much As You Can RUNNING TIME: 1h 20m VENUE: Access Loft GENRE: Dramadi (Comedy with serious overtones) AIR CONDITIONED : Yes INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 4

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster1 Proceed with caution2 Mild summer fare3 More than just hype4 Don’t miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!COMMENTS:“As much as you can” shows us a family dealing with racism and homosexuality. The twist on this is that the African American family has to deal with their son/brother's white boyfriend. It was your classic case of conservative meets liberal. However, the way that the subject matter was handled, it seemed more realistic then cliché. I laughed, I cried, and I fell in love with this "dysfunctional family." Everyone should check out this show!

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

I can definitely see this show appearing Off-Broadway or Off-Off Broadway in the future.

THE KIMONO LOOSENED

2005-08-15T13:02:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: THE KIMONO LOOSENED
RUNNING TIME: 1h 5m
VENUE: P.S. 122
GENRE: PeRformance Art
AIR-CONDITIONED : Yes
INTERMISSION: No
RATING (0-4): 3

RATING SCALE:
0 Run, dont walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just Hype
4 Dont miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

Much darker than I expected (and therefore more interesting). The use of the doll in the play didn't work as well as it might have.

BASURA

2005-08-15T12:58:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: BASURA
RUNNING TIME: 40 min
VENUE: P.S. 122
GENRE: Comedy/Puppetry
AIR-CONDITIONED : Yes
INTERMISSION: No
RATING (0-4): 3

RATING SCALE:
0 Run, dont walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Dont miss this one its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

Very clever use of "garbage" as props. Beginning was very
exciting but the originality faded as the "puppetry" became routine.

HIT.

2005-08-15T09:47:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: HIT
RUNNING TIME: 1h 50m
VENUE: Collective: Unconscious (279 Church St.)
GENRE: Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: Yes
RATING (0-4): 2

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one, its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

Quentin Tarantino fans will enjoy this “Reservoir Dogs” meets “The Professional” type story line and dialogue. Strong performances by all three actors keep you entertained to the very last moments.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

With shows like American Buffalo being revived and the upcoming last season of the Sopranos, this show could have a life ahead of it.

Shakedown Street

2005-08-15T08:49:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Shakedown Street
RUNNING TIME: 2h 10m
VENUE: The Village Theatre
GENRE: Musical/Comedy
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: Yes
RATING (0-4): 0

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one, its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

You don’t have to be a Grateful Dead fan to know that something is not quite right with this show. The songs and words of the late great Jerry Garcia are painfully misused in this 1940’s comedy/mystery. The only thing more confusing than the storyline is how the show got this far to begin with.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

N/A

JESUS IN MONTANA: Adventures in a Doomsday Cult

2005-08-15T08:43:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: JESUS IN MONTANA: Adventures in a Doomsday Cult
RUNNING TIME: 1h
VENUE: The Village Theatre
GENRE: Comedy/Solo Show
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No
RATING (0-4): 1

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one, its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

This tale of brainwashing and spiritual awakening comes off more as an advertisement rather than a warning!

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

None

The Suffrajets present A Musical Séance

2005-08-13T14:19:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: The Suffrajets present A Musical Séance
RUNNING TIME: 1h
VENUE: The Connelly Theatre (East 4^th St. A/B)
GENRE: Musical/Performance Art
AIR CONDITIONED: Yes
INTERMISSION: No
RATING (0-4): 3

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one, its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

Vaudevillian romp through the women’s movement roots. The show tells the story of two captivating clairvoyants: Victoria Woodhull and her sister Tennessee, who in the late 1800’s combined deep Spiritualistic beliefs and radical views on achieving equal rights for women.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

Depending on the venue, this two-girl team have a long path ahead.

Elements of Style

2005-08-13T14:18:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: Elements of Style
RUNNING TIME: 1h 10m
VENUE: 13^th Street Rep (50 West 13^th St 5/5)
GENRE: Comedy/Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: No
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 3

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one, its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

Told through many different characters, Wendy Weiner takes us through a colorful interview process at Conde Nast, where we get a very funny glimpse at the lives of the workers inside.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

Solo shows often can go either way; this show may not “have legs”, but it has a lot going for it.

The Cross

2005-08-13T14:16:00.000-07:00

SHOW TITLE: The Cross
RUNNING TIME: 55m
VENUE: 13^th Street Rep (50 West 13^th St 5/5)
GENRE: Comedy/Drama
AIR CONDITIONED: No
INTERMISSION: No

RATING (0-4): 1

RATING SCALE:

0 Run, don’t walk, away from this disaster
1 Proceed with caution
2 Mild summer fare
3 More than just hype
4 Don’t miss this one, its FRINGE-tastic!

COMMENTS:

Most of this play is spent discovering why the character is going from here to there – which left me wondering why I got from there to here.

POST-FRINGE PREDICTIONS:

Although Toby Wherry’s one-man performance is very strong, those looking for the next Thom Pain will have to keep searching.

FRINGE FESTIVAL DAY 1

2005-08-12T08:01:00.000-07:00

2005-08-03T10:10:00.000-07:00

Members of FRINGE-icals: The TEAM! get ready for the festival to begin.

2005-08-02T14:51:00.000-07:00

FRINGE-icals team captain Amanda Donelan with her 185 tickets!

185 Shows...17 Days...No Problem!

2005-07-22T14:22:00.000-07:00

Our Mission: We pledge as a group to see all 185 shows in the 2005 New York International Fringe Festival. Through determination, enthusiasm and perseverance, and utilizing all of our resources to scout new material and talent, we will successfully achieve our goal.

Check back soon for more info!