Well, the Fringe Festival is done for the year. And, the final party has been held. We all got together at Fringeville and all the staff folks got up on stage to the ovations of the crowds. I nearly killed myself on the stairs on the way down from the stage (2nd time this year...not good).
I enjoyed the company of Fringers and Fringe Staffers, and enjoyed a couple of Summit Grands, too.
It was a nice evening, and one that I hope we will repeat next year at the end of the Fest.
Until then, I will be putting together some stats about my die rolling, and also my complete ranking of the shows that I saw. So, look for those over the next day or so.
Thanks for reading.
TTFN
Monday, August 15, 2005
Day 11 -- 8:30 p.m. Time Slot
Show: We Make Porn Artsy
Company: Look Ma, We Wrote A Play
Venue: Women's Club
Die Roll: 12
The title for this play seems somehow fitting for a way to cap off the Fringe. In one sentence it says what the Fringe Festival can accomplish.
This is a play by a small group of High School, or just out of high school, girls. It is the story of girls who are in an art school and it is a slice-of-life play. Just as that it was pretty good. The girls were actually a bit better at the acting thing than many of the older adults that I've watched these past 11 days.
I really liked their method os doing scene changes. The fact that they talked and held random conversation in the darkness was actually quite a nice break from convention. The scenes themselves weren't always the most satisfying, but they were played truthfully, and had inherent humor.
I thought it was a nice end to the festival.
RATING: "d12 - A Heckuva Lotta Fun"
Company: Look Ma, We Wrote A Play
Venue: Women's Club
Die Roll: 12
The title for this play seems somehow fitting for a way to cap off the Fringe. In one sentence it says what the Fringe Festival can accomplish.
This is a play by a small group of High School, or just out of high school, girls. It is the story of girls who are in an art school and it is a slice-of-life play. Just as that it was pretty good. The girls were actually a bit better at the acting thing than many of the older adults that I've watched these past 11 days.
I really liked their method os doing scene changes. The fact that they talked and held random conversation in the darkness was actually quite a nice break from convention. The scenes themselves weren't always the most satisfying, but they were played truthfully, and had inherent humor.
I thought it was a nice end to the festival.
RATING: "d12 - A Heckuva Lotta Fun"
Day 11 -- 7:00 p.m. Time Slot
You know, I was going to try to make it through the entire day without stopping or skipping a Time Slot, but when it comes down to it, food is important. I got myself a sub and unwound a bit. Rolled the dice and discovered my final show of the 2005 Fringe Festival...more on that in a minute.
Day 11 -- 5:30 Time Slot
Show: Speechless
Company: Jessica Ferris
Venue: Red Eye
Die Roll: 20
One of the best things to come out of the Fringe this year was the sheer number of good people I met. One of them, Jessica Ferris. Jessica is very talented and uses that talent to the utmost in this show. Now, having read most of my other posts, you may have gathered that I'm not a fan of the one-man show under most circumstances. However, Jessica made her one-woman show well worth every moment. She played many characters, physically embodied each one entirely, and gave a moving performance and had my attnetion in its grasp non-stop.
She spoke different languages, used a method of storytelling that far surpassed just talking to the audience, and displayed an understnding of other people far beyond her years.
This woman is one of the best of the Fringe just by herself, mix that with her material, and it was a true treat.
RATING: "d20 - One of the Best"
Company: Jessica Ferris
Venue: Red Eye
Die Roll: 20
One of the best things to come out of the Fringe this year was the sheer number of good people I met. One of them, Jessica Ferris. Jessica is very talented and uses that talent to the utmost in this show. Now, having read most of my other posts, you may have gathered that I'm not a fan of the one-man show under most circumstances. However, Jessica made her one-woman show well worth every moment. She played many characters, physically embodied each one entirely, and gave a moving performance and had my attnetion in its grasp non-stop.
She spoke different languages, used a method of storytelling that far surpassed just talking to the audience, and displayed an understnding of other people far beyond her years.
This woman is one of the best of the Fringe just by herself, mix that with her material, and it was a true treat.
RATING: "d20 - One of the Best"
Show: Preacher Seeks Choir
Company: Phil Tippit
Venue: Minneapolis Theatre Garage
Die Roll: 8
From the moment I walked into the theatre, I figured this had to be something unlike what I'd originally been expecting, given the title. The sound system was playing the song "Big Balls." Not exactly the churchy song I thought was going to be cmoing my way.
So, I eventually put together that Phil wasn't doing a religious show, he was attempting to make a play on the phrase "Preaching to the choir." He need s a "choir" who agrees with him, in order for his rant to have any positive effect, so it is a fitting title, once you've thought it out.
I say rant, because that is what this show is. It is merely a guy bitching about the world for an hour. The script is spotty, comedy sketchy (and I don't mean in a BNW way), and the whole thing was filled with needless unmotivated swearing and numerous mentions about how the show is constantly being revised and went better the last time he told it. Odd.
I'm frightened that he's considering doing this again next year. Phil, get yourself a director, fast.
RATING: "d4 - Not Worth the Time"
Company: Phil Tippit
Venue: Minneapolis Theatre Garage
Die Roll: 8
From the moment I walked into the theatre, I figured this had to be something unlike what I'd originally been expecting, given the title. The sound system was playing the song "Big Balls." Not exactly the churchy song I thought was going to be cmoing my way.
So, I eventually put together that Phil wasn't doing a religious show, he was attempting to make a play on the phrase "Preaching to the choir." He need s a "choir" who agrees with him, in order for his rant to have any positive effect, so it is a fitting title, once you've thought it out.
I say rant, because that is what this show is. It is merely a guy bitching about the world for an hour. The script is spotty, comedy sketchy (and I don't mean in a BNW way), and the whole thing was filled with needless unmotivated swearing and numerous mentions about how the show is constantly being revised and went better the last time he told it. Odd.
I'm frightened that he's considering doing this again next year. Phil, get yourself a director, fast.
RATING: "d4 - Not Worth the Time"
Show: An Actor's Nightmare
Company: 5 OUTta 6
Venue: Mixed Blood
Die Roll: 15
After a weak beginning to my day, I was hoping that my second show could turn it around, and this one did. It is the old standby from the Community Theatre cannon by Christopher Durang. Normally, I would dread seeing it, because, though I have been in it once, the show is not normally well done. However, this was not the case today. Keith Kryzer is a very good actor. I've had the good fortune of sharing the stage with hime once upon a time, and I can safely say that he is one of the best actors in town to not be making his living at it. I'm always hoping that he takes the leap into the professional realm. He's that good.
So, with that, Kryzer played george Spelvin, the hapless accountant who finds himself accidentally inside a number of plays that he hadn't prepared for, and that go horribly wrong. Keith's wife, Rachael Cavegn also starred, and did a wonderful job. I'm looking forward to seeing what comes out of this group next.
The comedy was good, the acting strong, and the production wonderful.
RATING: "d12 - A Heckuva Lotta Fun"
Company: 5 OUTta 6
Venue: Mixed Blood
Die Roll: 15
After a weak beginning to my day, I was hoping that my second show could turn it around, and this one did. It is the old standby from the Community Theatre cannon by Christopher Durang. Normally, I would dread seeing it, because, though I have been in it once, the show is not normally well done. However, this was not the case today. Keith Kryzer is a very good actor. I've had the good fortune of sharing the stage with hime once upon a time, and I can safely say that he is one of the best actors in town to not be making his living at it. I'm always hoping that he takes the leap into the professional realm. He's that good.
So, with that, Kryzer played george Spelvin, the hapless accountant who finds himself accidentally inside a number of plays that he hadn't prepared for, and that go horribly wrong. Keith's wife, Rachael Cavegn also starred, and did a wonderful job. I'm looking forward to seeing what comes out of this group next.
The comedy was good, the acting strong, and the production wonderful.
RATING: "d12 - A Heckuva Lotta Fun"
Day 11 -- 1 p.m. Time Slot
Show: Do Not Pass Go
Company: Bobaloo
Venue: Mixed Blood
Die Roll: 7
This play goes into the category of either stand-up comedy routine, or theatre as therapy. Or both. From the moment that Bobaloo runs down the steps, he is doing a set about board games, but it morphs into a few tales about how he knew he was gay as a child.
Bobaloo seemed like an affable enough guy, and it is hard to dislike the show because he was trying so hard. But really there was little of substance here for an audience to watch. The substance was made up of things that clearly meant something to the actor, but the transition to a point where we could care, too, was missing.
RATING: "d6 - Has Some Merit"
Company: Bobaloo
Venue: Mixed Blood
Die Roll: 7
This play goes into the category of either stand-up comedy routine, or theatre as therapy. Or both. From the moment that Bobaloo runs down the steps, he is doing a set about board games, but it morphs into a few tales about how he knew he was gay as a child.
Bobaloo seemed like an affable enough guy, and it is hard to dislike the show because he was trying so hard. But really there was little of substance here for an audience to watch. The substance was made up of things that clearly meant something to the actor, but the transition to a point where we could care, too, was missing.
RATING: "d6 - Has Some Merit"
Sunday, August 14, 2005
Day 11 -- The Beginning
Guess what? It's almost done!
Last day. For the first time ever we've got a Day 11, and that's exciting in and of itself. I'm so happy.
I am a little bummed that certain plays didn't come up on the dice charts, and that I wasn't able to see more shows. But it was a good run. I'm planning on seeing a ful docket of shows today, and that'll be fun.
You know, I've had certain anecdotes saved for the moment I got to see certain shows. I have a really cool story from Spain that involves a guy from Australia at a bullfight that I was going to write about after I saw "DIVE" but I guess that won't be happening. I'll just have to save it for another time. Maybe it'll be in the random notes on a later blog, in the event that I'm back next year. We'll see.
Okay...let's get this party started...randomly:
My first job was as a radio announcer at WJJY AM in Brainerd, MN. I understand that station is no longer in existence, although their FM station is. I eventually worked for them, too. At different times throughout my radio career (both in MN & IA), I went by either Cole Williams or Christopher Robin on the air. It wasn't until I was working for an NPR affiliate that I went by Christopher Kidder on the air.
I'm hiding right now...You can't see me!
I just learned how to plant potatoes on "Rebecca's Garden."
Trivia time thanks to Hooked on Facts: "In Nebraska, It is illegal for bar owners to sell beer unless they are simultaneously brewing a kettle of soup." -- I love soup!
I have nothing terribly useful to say.
Last day. For the first time ever we've got a Day 11, and that's exciting in and of itself. I'm so happy.
I am a little bummed that certain plays didn't come up on the dice charts, and that I wasn't able to see more shows. But it was a good run. I'm planning on seeing a ful docket of shows today, and that'll be fun.
You know, I've had certain anecdotes saved for the moment I got to see certain shows. I have a really cool story from Spain that involves a guy from Australia at a bullfight that I was going to write about after I saw "DIVE" but I guess that won't be happening. I'll just have to save it for another time. Maybe it'll be in the random notes on a later blog, in the event that I'm back next year. We'll see.
Okay...let's get this party started...randomly:
My first job was as a radio announcer at WJJY AM in Brainerd, MN. I understand that station is no longer in existence, although their FM station is. I eventually worked for them, too. At different times throughout my radio career (both in MN & IA), I went by either Cole Williams or Christopher Robin on the air. It wasn't until I was working for an NPR affiliate that I went by Christopher Kidder on the air. I'm hiding right now...You can't see me! I just learned how to plant potatoes on "Rebecca's Garden." Trivia time thanks to Hooked on Facts: "In Nebraska, It is illegal for bar owners to sell beer unless they are simultaneously brewing a kettle of soup." -- I love soup! I have nothing terribly useful to say.
Day 10 -- 10:00 p.m. Time Slot
Show: Talking With...
Company: In The Basement Productions
Venue: Bryant-Lake Bown
Die Roll: 17
So, this is the first time I've been in the BLB this Fringe. The 90-minute shows don't normally line-up with the rest of my schedule charts. However, twice a day on the longer days they do, and this is one of those times.
This show is a series of monologues of mostly eccentric ladies. It is good, but suffers from being too long. Meaning, a couple of them could've gone and the show would stand up better. But that isn't the fault of the performers, just the show structure.
Rather than critiquing all of the monologues one-by-one, I think i'll just mention the ones that were outstanding. First, let me mention that this play marks the best performance I've ever seen from Kathy Kupiecki. The other actresses that I have to mention are Kia Erdman, Kristin Richardson, Robin Sorenson, and Mo Perry. They all did a great job with the material they were given. Julie Bohn was also impressive as a woman living out her fantasy as a character in the land of Oz.
The other actresses that I'm not mentioning did a great job, too, but their monologues were not necessarily the best. Essentially, the second half of the show just isn't as well-written. OH MY GOD! Chris just criticized Jane Martin!!! Yep, that's right. This is a show that could've ended at the hour mark. The actresses in the second half were cheated on the material they were given.
A good presentation, though.
RATING: "d12 - A Heckuva Lotta Fun"
Company: In The Basement Productions
Venue: Bryant-Lake Bown
Die Roll: 17
So, this is the first time I've been in the BLB this Fringe. The 90-minute shows don't normally line-up with the rest of my schedule charts. However, twice a day on the longer days they do, and this is one of those times.
This show is a series of monologues of mostly eccentric ladies. It is good, but suffers from being too long. Meaning, a couple of them could've gone and the show would stand up better. But that isn't the fault of the performers, just the show structure.
Rather than critiquing all of the monologues one-by-one, I think i'll just mention the ones that were outstanding. First, let me mention that this play marks the best performance I've ever seen from Kathy Kupiecki. The other actresses that I have to mention are Kia Erdman, Kristin Richardson, Robin Sorenson, and Mo Perry. They all did a great job with the material they were given. Julie Bohn was also impressive as a woman living out her fantasy as a character in the land of Oz.
The other actresses that I'm not mentioning did a great job, too, but their monologues were not necessarily the best. Essentially, the second half of the show just isn't as well-written. OH MY GOD! Chris just criticized Jane Martin!!! Yep, that's right. This is a show that could've ended at the hour mark. The actresses in the second half were cheated on the material they were given.
A good presentation, though.
RATING: "d12 - A Heckuva Lotta Fun"
Day 10 -- 8:30 Time Slot
Didn't make it to a show in this slot, because I got to talking to folks for too long. Instead, I headed for the waiting line for the 10:00 p.m. show at the BLB.
Day 10 -- 7 p.m. Time Slot
Show: Quarter Life Crisis
Company: Urban Samurai Productions
Venue: Brave New Workshop
Die Roll: 16
This is a play that looks at one relationship at one moment in time. It starts with a sequence reminiscent of the writing of David Ives (part "English Made Simple," part "Sure Thing"). It then moves into a date scene in which the female character goes through a life changing revelation and eventually breaks up with her man.
It's funny and amusing throughout. And it is well acted by Nate Hessberg and Emily Blanchard.
There is a little difficulty at the end when the show wraps up in a series of phone calls that could've been cut, but otherwise it is good.
RATING: "d12 - A Heckuva Lotta Fun"
Company: Urban Samurai Productions
Venue: Brave New Workshop
Die Roll: 16
This is a play that looks at one relationship at one moment in time. It starts with a sequence reminiscent of the writing of David Ives (part "English Made Simple," part "Sure Thing"). It then moves into a date scene in which the female character goes through a life changing revelation and eventually breaks up with her man.
It's funny and amusing throughout. And it is well acted by Nate Hessberg and Emily Blanchard.
There is a little difficulty at the end when the show wraps up in a series of phone calls that could've been cut, but otherwise it is good.
RATING: "d12 - A Heckuva Lotta Fun"
Day 10 -- 4:00 & 5:30 Time Slots
With nothing appropriate for Wendy, we headed for home. We ate supper and then I headed back to the realm of Fringe sans kid.
Day 10 -- 2:30 p.m. Time Slot
Show: A Little Princess
Company: Top Hat Theater
Venue: MCTC Whitney Mainstage
Die Roll: None -- Wendy Choice
We stayed at MCTC for this one. It's nice to have friends and acquaintences in the shows that I take Wendy to. She thinks I'm famous when people say "hi" to me. That strikes me as humorous, seeing as she often sees me in shows, has met the people in the shows with me, but I'm not famous because I know them. She takes the Baldwin sisters in stride. Patty Nieman is someone who she sees as a friend. But, since I've never been in a show with Joe Scrimshaw or Tim Uren, the fact that they say goodbye to me as they walk out of the theatre, and I'm a famous guy! Wild!
So anyway, I knew a few people in A Little Princess, too. And so I've been looking forward to seeing it since the beginning of the Fringe. I hadn't expected to get a chance, so having Wendy with me helped out in that regard.
The show involves a cast of thousands (actually about 40, I think). It was like a community theatre show, in that, if you cast a bunch of kids, you've got a guaranteed audience. Also like a community theatre show, the blocking was sloppy, the staging presentational, and the quality of acting inconsistent.
Some of the adults put on good performances, and a number of them just didn't. The kids were generally pretty good, though. The girl who played the main character, Sara, is very talented and does carry the show.
My daughter enjoyed the show, but she kept asking questions and talking during the show, which normally indicated her full attention isn't on the show itself. The way she works, she was determined to like this show before we went in, so the fact that she says she did doesn't really mean it's true. What she did like was seeing other kids acting in front of her. She can't recount a single part of the story, though. She does say that she thought it was a sad story, and that one actress was playing a character who was mean.
So, there's that.
I don't really want to pan this show, but I guess that's what I'm in the midst of doing. It was slow moving, disjointed, and not fun to watch. I guess it woulsd be if I were related to one of the kids, but that's the only way I can see it being something more than it is.
RATING: "d8 - Not Bad, Not Great"
Company: Top Hat Theater
Venue: MCTC Whitney Mainstage
Die Roll: None -- Wendy Choice
We stayed at MCTC for this one. It's nice to have friends and acquaintences in the shows that I take Wendy to. She thinks I'm famous when people say "hi" to me. That strikes me as humorous, seeing as she often sees me in shows, has met the people in the shows with me, but I'm not famous because I know them. She takes the Baldwin sisters in stride. Patty Nieman is someone who she sees as a friend. But, since I've never been in a show with Joe Scrimshaw or Tim Uren, the fact that they say goodbye to me as they walk out of the theatre, and I'm a famous guy! Wild!
So anyway, I knew a few people in A Little Princess, too. And so I've been looking forward to seeing it since the beginning of the Fringe. I hadn't expected to get a chance, so having Wendy with me helped out in that regard.
The show involves a cast of thousands (actually about 40, I think). It was like a community theatre show, in that, if you cast a bunch of kids, you've got a guaranteed audience. Also like a community theatre show, the blocking was sloppy, the staging presentational, and the quality of acting inconsistent.
Some of the adults put on good performances, and a number of them just didn't. The kids were generally pretty good, though. The girl who played the main character, Sara, is very talented and does carry the show.
My daughter enjoyed the show, but she kept asking questions and talking during the show, which normally indicated her full attention isn't on the show itself. The way she works, she was determined to like this show before we went in, so the fact that she says she did doesn't really mean it's true. What she did like was seeing other kids acting in front of her. She can't recount a single part of the story, though. She does say that she thought it was a sad story, and that one actress was playing a character who was mean.
So, there's that.
I don't really want to pan this show, but I guess that's what I'm in the midst of doing. It was slow moving, disjointed, and not fun to watch. I guess it woulsd be if I were related to one of the kids, but that's the only way I can see it being something more than it is.
RATING: "d8 - Not Bad, Not Great"
Day 10 -- 1:00 p.m. Time Slot
Show: Three Billy Goats Gruff
Company: Old Gem
Venue: MCTC Whitney Studio
Die Roll: None -- Wendy Selection
I was sort of disappointed that the Fringe didn't schedule more kids shows on the final weekend, or that they were right on top of each other in the first two time slots on Saturday. I brought my daughter with me again this morning, but I was only able to take her to the first two Time Slots. No dice. She got to pick the shows. And in this slot she chose to see Joe Scrimshaw, Tim Uren and Jen Scott in one of her favorite folk tales.
Wendy really liked the fact that she got to learn how to count to three in Norwegian, and that she got to get up on stage to blow bubbles at Joe who was playing the troll. She was on a mission to blow streams of bubbles into Joe's eyes.
This is the kind of kids show that is a lot of fun with very little production expense. Kids don't need to have all the fancy stuff. They are willing to play make believe with you for an hour if you'll play with them, and that's what this show accomplishes. It was beautiful.
Great show.
RATING: "d20 - One of the Best"
Company: Old Gem
Venue: MCTC Whitney Studio
Die Roll: None -- Wendy Selection
I was sort of disappointed that the Fringe didn't schedule more kids shows on the final weekend, or that they were right on top of each other in the first two time slots on Saturday. I brought my daughter with me again this morning, but I was only able to take her to the first two Time Slots. No dice. She got to pick the shows. And in this slot she chose to see Joe Scrimshaw, Tim Uren and Jen Scott in one of her favorite folk tales.
Wendy really liked the fact that she got to learn how to count to three in Norwegian, and that she got to get up on stage to blow bubbles at Joe who was playing the troll. She was on a mission to blow streams of bubbles into Joe's eyes.
This is the kind of kids show that is a lot of fun with very little production expense. Kids don't need to have all the fancy stuff. They are willing to play make believe with you for an hour if you'll play with them, and that's what this show accomplishes. It was beautiful.
Great show.
RATING: "d20 - One of the Best"
Saturday, August 13, 2005
Day 10 -- The Beginning
Well, I have Wendy with me for the first two time slots again today. She'll be headed home after that, and then I'll be back to dice-determined Fringe Exploration. Should be fun. We'll be starting our day with the Three Billy Goats Gruff, and then A Little Princess. After that, kid-friendly doesn't matter any more. My dice are getting ansty, so I'm die-ing (oooh! a pun!) to get going.
Just a bit of random stuff:
I'm going to the gym to work out. I need that.
I'm thinking of a number between one and five!
"To go along with the comfort, we've built in hard working features like mid-leg utility pockets." -- Blurb from the Duluth Trading Co catalog.
Trivia Time!: "The first TV commercial: a Bulova watch ticking onscreen for exactly 60 seconds." -- This is exciting to me. I have a Bulova watch. It's a great time piece, and good-lookin' too!
Just a bit of random stuff:
I'm going to the gym to work out. I need that. I'm thinking of a number between one and five! "To go along with the comfort, we've built in hard working features like mid-leg utility pockets." -- Blurb from the Duluth Trading Co catalog. Trivia Time!: "The first TV commercial: a Bulova watch ticking onscreen for exactly 60 seconds." -- This is exciting to me. I have a Bulova watch. It's a great time piece, and good-lookin' too!
Day 9 -- The rest
Wendy's bedtime is normally 8:00, and we left the Theatre Garage after that time. So, it was time to head home. Initially I had delusions of returning to the Fringe, but I, too, fell asleep. So, onto day 10...
Day 9 -- 7:00 p.m. Time Slot
Show: Nibblers: A Musical With Sharks
Company: Front Porch Theatre
Venue: Theatre Garage
There was no die roll, nor a number chosen by Wendy, because this was the only show she wanted to see!!! (or as she put it "I mean it, I mean it, I mean it.")
So, This was a fun hour spent, and according to my daughter, it was also very educational. She now knows that sharks can smell blood, and that if you bop them on the nose they are stunned. She has also become very focused on the fact that the play taught a lesson. That lesson: Never go off by yourself. Oh yeah, and that sharks can smell blood. Did I mention that?
The songs were good, but I'd heard parts of them before, so that wasn't a surprise. Although, it was nice to hear them live. And the kids were great.
The plotline was a little convoluted at times, but really, what do you expect with a musical in which three sharks narrate? It was just good fun for the family, and there were actual villains, conflict, and dramatic action. This far surpassed the other children's fare that I've seen recently.
RATING: "d20 - One of the Best"
Company: Front Porch Theatre
Venue: Theatre Garage
There was no die roll, nor a number chosen by Wendy, because this was the only show she wanted to see!!! (or as she put it "I mean it, I mean it, I mean it.")
So, This was a fun hour spent, and according to my daughter, it was also very educational. She now knows that sharks can smell blood, and that if you bop them on the nose they are stunned. She has also become very focused on the fact that the play taught a lesson. That lesson: Never go off by yourself. Oh yeah, and that sharks can smell blood. Did I mention that?
The songs were good, but I'd heard parts of them before, so that wasn't a surprise. Although, it was nice to hear them live. And the kids were great.
The plotline was a little convoluted at times, but really, what do you expect with a musical in which three sharks narrate? It was just good fun for the family, and there were actual villains, conflict, and dramatic action. This far surpassed the other children's fare that I've seen recently.
RATING: "d20 - One of the Best"
Day 9 -- 5:30 Time Slot
Well, we looked at the schedule, and decided that we'd throw out the number-picking entirely, because my daughter really wanted to see "Nibblers" in the 7:00 hour. That meant that the 5:30 Time Slot was our time for food. Wendy and I went to Rudolph's. She had a cheeseburger and corn on the cob. I had Beef Brisket and corn on the cob. We were happy. Then we went and got in line for Nibblers. Luckily we got there really early. Although it is difficult to entertain a 6 year-old standing in line for over half an hour, it assured us entry into the show. More on that in a minute.
Day 9 -- 4:00 p.m. Time Slot
Show: Magic Exists
Company: Insomnia, Inc.
Venue: Women's Club
Wendy's Number Choice: 10
As I mentioned earlier, Wendy (that's my daughter) tagged along with me this evening. Her choice of numbers replaced the rolling of the dice. I learned something. If you say "pick a number between one and twenty," using kid logic, you choose 10. It is halfway between 1 and 20. Well, 10 was the number on the chart for Mythed, but once we got there the line was far too long for us to get in, so we did a geographic calculation and went down the street to the Women's Club for a magic show. Wendy does magic tricks. She decided sometime last year that she'd like to be a magician. So I buy her a new trick from Twin Cities Magic & Costume from time to time.
So, we got to enjoy a few magic tricks, I got to enjoy some of the jokes that went over Wendy's head, and now I have to do some research on the rope trick so I can either buy it for her, or get a book that teaches her how to do it.
It was a fun show, although I wouldn't normally recommend bringing a kid with you, as the opening monologue is about sex. Again, I'm pretty sure it went over Wendy's 6 year-old head, but having taught theatre in many elementary schools over the past 7 years, I can assure you that if I'd had an 8 year-old with me the jokes would've been understood just enough to cause trouble, and that's not necessarily good.
RATING: "d10 - Worth Going To"
Company: Insomnia, Inc.
Venue: Women's Club
Wendy's Number Choice: 10
As I mentioned earlier, Wendy (that's my daughter) tagged along with me this evening. Her choice of numbers replaced the rolling of the dice. I learned something. If you say "pick a number between one and twenty," using kid logic, you choose 10. It is halfway between 1 and 20. Well, 10 was the number on the chart for Mythed, but once we got there the line was far too long for us to get in, so we did a geographic calculation and went down the street to the Women's Club for a magic show. Wendy does magic tricks. She decided sometime last year that she'd like to be a magician. So I buy her a new trick from Twin Cities Magic & Costume from time to time.
So, we got to enjoy a few magic tricks, I got to enjoy some of the jokes that went over Wendy's head, and now I have to do some research on the rope trick so I can either buy it for her, or get a book that teaches her how to do it.
It was a fun show, although I wouldn't normally recommend bringing a kid with you, as the opening monologue is about sex. Again, I'm pretty sure it went over Wendy's 6 year-old head, but having taught theatre in many elementary schools over the past 7 years, I can assure you that if I'd had an 8 year-old with me the jokes would've been understood just enough to cause trouble, and that's not necessarily good.
RATING: "d10 - Worth Going To"
Friday, August 12, 2005
Day 9 -- The beginning
Here in just a little bit I'm goign to pick up my 6 year-old daughter and take her with me to tonight's offerings. Should be interesting, as I searched the site for "Family Friendly" shows and there just weren't a lot that came up for Friday night.
Anyway, her mother has to work late tonight, so Dad and daughter are going to take in some shows and hope that she doesn't hear the f-word too many times. Cross your fingers for me.
I'm doing modified charts for tonight. Anything with too many warnings gets taken off the charts. Also, instead of rolling dice, I'm letting her choose numbers 1-20. It makes it more fun for her.
Okay, random stuff:
I would like to thank Rik Reppe for being the one person who understands my need to uphold the integrity of my show selection method. Also, I'd like to let y'all know that, as I mentioned to Rik, I will be putting out statistics regarding my die rolls, etc. about a day or two after the Fringe is completed.
It is too hot today to be wearing a vest and a tie. I need to change.
I highly recommend Audio Books For Free. If you have an MP3 player, it is worthwhile.
Thank you to the guys of "THAC0" for mentioning Jim Henson's "Labyrinth" and "Dark Crystal" in their show. That made me happy.
A bit of trivia? Sure...I'm hooked on facts: "Redheads require more anesthesia to 'go under' than other hair colors do." -- Not sure what this means, but it may be helpful information to you, depending on your hair color.
I have a navel!
Remember the Alamo!
Anyway, her mother has to work late tonight, so Dad and daughter are going to take in some shows and hope that she doesn't hear the f-word too many times. Cross your fingers for me.
I'm doing modified charts for tonight. Anything with too many warnings gets taken off the charts. Also, instead of rolling dice, I'm letting her choose numbers 1-20. It makes it more fun for her.
Okay, random stuff:
I would like to thank Rik Reppe for being the one person who understands my need to uphold the integrity of my show selection method. Also, I'd like to let y'all know that, as I mentioned to Rik, I will be putting out statistics regarding my die rolls, etc. about a day or two after the Fringe is completed. It is too hot today to be wearing a vest and a tie. I need to change. I highly recommend Audio Books For Free. If you have an MP3 player, it is worthwhile. Thank you to the guys of "THAC0" for mentioning Jim Henson's "Labyrinth" and "Dark Crystal" in their show. That made me happy. A bit of trivia? Sure...I'm hooked on facts: "Redheads require more anesthesia to 'go under' than other hair colors do." -- Not sure what this means, but it may be helpful information to you, depending on your hair color. I have a navel! Remember the Alamo!
Day 8 -- 8:30 p.m. Time Slot
Show: Never Surrender's Greatest Adventures
Company: Never Surrender
Venue: Loring Playhouse
Die Roll: 19
Now, of the members of the Fringe Festival staff, I think I am alone in my assessment of this show, but here's the thing... It isn't good theatre. What it is, is a Saturday Night Live skit that has gone on far too long. The gimmick of an entirely lip-synced (dialogue, too) is funny for a brief bit of time, but that's about it.
The lyp-syncing isn't even that good. The lip-temble of the "lead singer" doesn't mimic actual singing technique, although the rest of his stuff is actually pretty good. The hijinx/dopey-looks of Mike P. (the sometimes keyboardist/sometimes bassist) continually distract from the show by upstaging the rest of what is going on.
The plot is straight out of Scooby Do, and that doesn't bother me, but the rest of the show did.
The other two who were with me walked out of this show. I wanted to, but felt obligated to continue on.
Now, I understand that these guys are fun to have at a party. But when I want to see a show at the Fringe Festival, I'll skip them.
RATING: "d6 - Has Some Merit"
Company: Never Surrender
Venue: Loring Playhouse
Die Roll: 19
Now, of the members of the Fringe Festival staff, I think I am alone in my assessment of this show, but here's the thing... It isn't good theatre. What it is, is a Saturday Night Live skit that has gone on far too long. The gimmick of an entirely lip-synced (dialogue, too) is funny for a brief bit of time, but that's about it.
The lyp-syncing isn't even that good. The lip-temble of the "lead singer" doesn't mimic actual singing technique, although the rest of his stuff is actually pretty good. The hijinx/dopey-looks of Mike P. (the sometimes keyboardist/sometimes bassist) continually distract from the show by upstaging the rest of what is going on.
The plot is straight out of Scooby Do, and that doesn't bother me, but the rest of the show did.
The other two who were with me walked out of this show. I wanted to, but felt obligated to continue on.
Now, I understand that these guys are fun to have at a party. But when I want to see a show at the Fringe Festival, I'll skip them.
RATING: "d6 - Has Some Merit"
Day 8 -- 7:00 p.m. Time Slot
So, I was originally headed toward the Unicycle Showcase at the MCTC Mainstage for this time slot, but fate had be headed elsewhere. Shortly after I got out of my car, Rik Reppe bumped into me, and we had a lovely chat about the blogs, life in New Orleans, and the nature of random determination of show attendance. That's the first time I've met Rik. He's a good guy. On a much earlier blog when I'd asked people to respond about how they determine which shows to see, he was the only person who offered up his method. It goes like this...The people who have been good to him, he goes and sees their shows. You know what? That's good business sense in addition to being a good friend. Keep the people you know, who are also helpful people, in business. Were I using his method, his show would be near the top of my list of shows to see. Really, if I were allowing myself to just pick shows, his would have been at the top of my list to see anyway. I'm hoping that my dice will afford me that chance. We'll see.
Anyway, when I left Rik, I headed toward the MCTC theatre building when, wouldn't you know it, I bumped into Nancy Donoval who invited me to food at Joe's Garage. Now, anyone who has read my blog at its old home at http://fringe1234.blogspot.com, will know that I love their mashed potatoes. So I took her up on the offer, and ditched the show. I felt a little guilty until the mashed potatoes came. Other Fringers sighted at Joe's: Rik Reppe, Jake Endres (of Rik's show, as well as Serendipity), Sheila Simon (of The Pope Stole My Pretzel), and fellow blogger Kate Hoff.
Communing with other Fringe-goers is a big part of fringing, so I was happy to be able to do that. Especially over the delicious mashed potatoes, topped with broccoli, bratwurst, and cheddar cheese.
Anyway, when I left Rik, I headed toward the MCTC theatre building when, wouldn't you know it, I bumped into Nancy Donoval who invited me to food at Joe's Garage. Now, anyone who has read my blog at its old home at http://fringe1234.blogspot.com, will know that I love their mashed potatoes. So I took her up on the offer, and ditched the show. I felt a little guilty until the mashed potatoes came. Other Fringers sighted at Joe's: Rik Reppe, Jake Endres (of Rik's show, as well as Serendipity), Sheila Simon (of The Pope Stole My Pretzel), and fellow blogger Kate Hoff.
Communing with other Fringe-goers is a big part of fringing, so I was happy to be able to do that. Especially over the delicious mashed potatoes, topped with broccoli, bratwurst, and cheddar cheese.
Day 8 -- 5:30 Time Slot
Show: Working for the Man
Company: Carlo Cicala
Venue: Theatre Garage
Die Roll: 8
The first time I encountered Carlo Cicala was about 3 years ago. He auditioned for me. At that time, his Italian accent (he is Italian) was so thick I couldn't understand the cold read. One of the good things about this show is that I can now understand Carlo when he speaks. The other good thing I can say about this show is that the girl can act. Beyond those two things, I've got nothin'. Sorry, but this is a painful show to watch. First, because the character motivations within the script do not ring true, and second because two of the three actors aren't good.
RATING: "d4 - Not Worth the Time"
Company: Carlo Cicala
Venue: Theatre Garage
Die Roll: 8
The first time I encountered Carlo Cicala was about 3 years ago. He auditioned for me. At that time, his Italian accent (he is Italian) was so thick I couldn't understand the cold read. One of the good things about this show is that I can now understand Carlo when he speaks. The other good thing I can say about this show is that the girl can act. Beyond those two things, I've got nothin'. Sorry, but this is a painful show to watch. First, because the character motivations within the script do not ring true, and second because two of the three actors aren't good.
RATING: "d4 - Not Worth the Time"
Thursday, August 11, 2005
Day 8 -- The beginning
I'm looking forward to seeing shows tonight, but I am also looking forward to the fact that I can work on my garden and such during the day today. I'm excited about my tomatoes. The only problem is that I planted a bunch of Heirlooms, and didn't label them, so I'm not sure how I'm going to tell when they are done. What color are they supposed to be? I don't know.
My other project today is to clean my house. I'm feeling awfully domestic!
Tonight, in addition to the shows, I'll be heading over to the Town Hall pub to see Bucky Fay. Bucky used to be the artistic director of the Cromulent Shakespeare Company. He's spent the last year in Kuwait and Kosovo teaching classes to the boys in the army and airforce. It'll be good to catch up.
Well, time for something random, I guess:
Neither Bert, nor Ernie are voiced by their original puppeteers anymore. Obviously because Jim Henson is dead, but Frank Oz isn't involved anymore. This bums me out, but I guess retiring from Sesame Street had to happen at some point.
I feel good!
Can yo uthink of any other time you might use the word "Akimbo" other than in the phrase "arms akimbo?" Can other things be akimbo?
A fact from Hooked on Facts: "25% of your bones are located in your feet." -- And, according to my ex- wife 75% of my brains are in my A**!
My other project today is to clean my house. I'm feeling awfully domestic!
Tonight, in addition to the shows, I'll be heading over to the Town Hall pub to see Bucky Fay. Bucky used to be the artistic director of the Cromulent Shakespeare Company. He's spent the last year in Kuwait and Kosovo teaching classes to the boys in the army and airforce. It'll be good to catch up.
Well, time for something random, I guess:
Neither Bert, nor Ernie are voiced by their original puppeteers anymore. Obviously because Jim Henson is dead, but Frank Oz isn't involved anymore. This bums me out, but I guess retiring from Sesame Street had to happen at some point. I feel good! Can yo uthink of any other time you might use the word "Akimbo" other than in the phrase "arms akimbo?" Can other things be akimbo? A fact from Hooked on Facts: "25% of your bones are located in your feet." -- And, according to my ex- wife 75% of my brains are in my A**!
Day 7 -- 8:30 p.m. Time Slot
Show: The Lesson
Company: Three Headed Dog
Venue: Women's Center
Die Roll: 4
This play was better than I'd feared, and that makes me happy.
The characters were well executed and the diretion was clear. The whole thing would've benefitted from being in a different venue, but the company had no control over that.
Director Hazen Markoe informs me that the production will be used to launch his company onto the theatre scene, so I'm looking forward to their next project.
RATING: "d10 - Worth Going To"
Company: Three Headed Dog
Venue: Women's Center
Die Roll: 4
This play was better than I'd feared, and that makes me happy.
The characters were well executed and the diretion was clear. The whole thing would've benefitted from being in a different venue, but the company had no control over that.
Director Hazen Markoe informs me that the production will be used to launch his company onto the theatre scene, so I'm looking forward to their next project.
RATING: "d10 - Worth Going To"
Day 7 -- 7:00 p.m. Time Slot
Show: THAC0
Company: Council of Doom
Venue: Acadia
Die Roll: 14
I can't escape the Acadia!!!! There's no a/c in there!
So, This was a sold-out performance of a show about gamers. Who knew that gamers and theatre people went so well together! Oh, wait. I did. In fact, the group that I played with for years, back when I lived in Iowa, met in our Acting I class.
But before we get that far along in my gaming history, I must bring you into the world of gaming. This show does that by the narration of one character who actually starts the show with words pulled from the introduction of the Players Handbook of AD&D.
For me, D&D started as a game that my family played one weekend. We bad the "basic" boxed set, and my mom was the Dungeon Master. My brother played a magic user, my dad was a fighter, and I was a halfling. We got to the first encounter of the sample adventure that was provided in the box, and my mom instantly slaughtered all of us. Game over. It was from that fateful beginning that I launched into a career of RPG gaming and, more importantly, designing and writing.
This show, THAC0, hit home for me, but it also showed me things that I try to leave in my past. So it was a bit of forced nostalgia. I enjoyed it, but at the same time saw things that brought me back to the way I once was. Ugh!
When one character purges his belongings in order to get rid of all the needless crap that gamers accumulate, I saw myself. All three times I've done that. It's sad, really. I need to do that again.
This is the first show I gave a standing ovation to, personally.
RATING: "d20 - One of the Best"
Company: Council of Doom
Venue: Acadia
Die Roll: 14
I can't escape the Acadia!!!! There's no a/c in there!
So, This was a sold-out performance of a show about gamers. Who knew that gamers and theatre people went so well together! Oh, wait. I did. In fact, the group that I played with for years, back when I lived in Iowa, met in our Acting I class.
But before we get that far along in my gaming history, I must bring you into the world of gaming. This show does that by the narration of one character who actually starts the show with words pulled from the introduction of the Players Handbook of AD&D.
For me, D&D started as a game that my family played one weekend. We bad the "basic" boxed set, and my mom was the Dungeon Master. My brother played a magic user, my dad was a fighter, and I was a halfling. We got to the first encounter of the sample adventure that was provided in the box, and my mom instantly slaughtered all of us. Game over. It was from that fateful beginning that I launched into a career of RPG gaming and, more importantly, designing and writing.
This show, THAC0, hit home for me, but it also showed me things that I try to leave in my past. So it was a bit of forced nostalgia. I enjoyed it, but at the same time saw things that brought me back to the way I once was. Ugh!
When one character purges his belongings in order to get rid of all the needless crap that gamers accumulate, I saw myself. All three times I've done that. It's sad, really. I need to do that again.
This is the first show I gave a standing ovation to, personally.
RATING: "d20 - One of the Best"
Day 7 -- 5:30 p.m. Time Slot
Show: Jamaica Me Crazy
Company: Jamillah Hollman & Ericka Dennis
Venue: Acadia
Die Roll: 13
I'll be brief about this play. It was brief itself. So I'll stick to that theme.
It was a play about two sisters who attempt to take a trip to Jamaica with each other. One of them can't get her poop in a group, and the other is watching her life fall apart around her. The sister-sister moments in the play ring true. However, they are often hard to hear because of sound cues that are far too loud. There are voice overs which are supposed to be the internal voices of the actresses, but instead of recording them in their own voices, they are provided by backstage actresses who don't sound like their onstage alter-egos. And their is a guy who is dressed like a guardian angel who sings random songs throughout this disjointed production.
I really wanted to like this show throughout, but I just didn't.
RATING: "d4 - Not Worth the Time"
Company: Jamillah Hollman & Ericka Dennis
Venue: Acadia
Die Roll: 13
I'll be brief about this play. It was brief itself. So I'll stick to that theme.
It was a play about two sisters who attempt to take a trip to Jamaica with each other. One of them can't get her poop in a group, and the other is watching her life fall apart around her. The sister-sister moments in the play ring true. However, they are often hard to hear because of sound cues that are far too loud. There are voice overs which are supposed to be the internal voices of the actresses, but instead of recording them in their own voices, they are provided by backstage actresses who don't sound like their onstage alter-egos. And their is a guy who is dressed like a guardian angel who sings random songs throughout this disjointed production.
I really wanted to like this show throughout, but I just didn't.
RATING: "d4 - Not Worth the Time"
Wednesday, August 10, 2005
Day 7 -- The Beginning
Well, today is a matinee day. Shows are starting at 1 p.m. I'm hoping to get to as many as I possibly can. I'm assuming that I'll be taking two munchie breaks along the way, though.
The good news, yesterday was my first day of feeling back in good health all day long. I am still feeling good, and I now hypothesize that it took me slightly over a week each time I've gone to a new country (including my own) to adjust to the surroundings. That doesn't bode well for ever taking a one-week only trip for me, but at least I'm back to feeling normal again. No more about my health for the rest of the festival, I hope.
The Fringe is past the half-way point now, and so I'm feeling pressure to find that diamond-in-the-rough that grabs me and shakes me.
A butterfly flaps its wings in China, and you get these random bits:
It takes two to tangle. While it does take two to tango, also, that isn't the original expression. It is much more straightforward than that. The expression is about fighting, and so is the wording of it. The cleverness of the pun of "tango" has been lost over time because people don't know the original phrase.
I have a stuffed bear named Nigel. I'd originally proposed that as a name for my child had she been born a boy, but it was decided that since we live in America, you canm't name a kid Nigel without him gettting beaten up all the time.
I picked a card, any card...It was the Ace of Diamonds.
You know what? I'm changing back to Hooked on Facts for my trivia: "Flamingos pee on their legs to cool themselves off." -- Note to self: Stay away from Flamingos
The good news, yesterday was my first day of feeling back in good health all day long. I am still feeling good, and I now hypothesize that it took me slightly over a week each time I've gone to a new country (including my own) to adjust to the surroundings. That doesn't bode well for ever taking a one-week only trip for me, but at least I'm back to feeling normal again. No more about my health for the rest of the festival, I hope.
The Fringe is past the half-way point now, and so I'm feeling pressure to find that diamond-in-the-rough that grabs me and shakes me.
A butterfly flaps its wings in China, and you get these random bits:
It takes two to tangle. While it does take two to tango, also, that isn't the original expression. It is much more straightforward than that. The expression is about fighting, and so is the wording of it. The cleverness of the pun of "tango" has been lost over time because people don't know the original phrase. I have a stuffed bear named Nigel. I'd originally proposed that as a name for my child had she been born a boy, but it was decided that since we live in America, you canm't name a kid Nigel without him gettting beaten up all the time. I picked a card, any card...It was the Ace of Diamonds. You know what? I'm changing back to Hooked on Facts for my trivia: "Flamingos pee on their legs to cool themselves off." -- Note to self: Stay away from Flamingos
Day 6 -- 10:00 p.m. Time Slot
Show: Chicks in Space
Company: Theatre Unbound
Venue: Intermedia Arts
Die Roll: 8
Back to the scent-free venue. This time I made sure I was, indeed, scent-free.
And I saw a fun and whimsical show that made me smile. At 10 p.m. on a Tuesday, that's just what I was looking for.
Theatre Unbound is the female-centric theatre group here in the Twin Cities. They put on shows that are by women and about women without being harshly anti-male. Initially I heard about them doing a play about a group of women who decide to leave planet Earth, and I assumed that it was going to be about getting away from the evil that is men. Nope. That isn't mentioned at all. That makes me happy. This play was about the female charcters, their relationships, their doubts and dreams.
Some of the best moments: Encountering the "Frightenoids," and the visit to Nursery 42.
One thing that may confuse a little is the Salt Monster. But if you listen to the mantra of the monster ("Turn Back"), you can accept that in one way or another he symbolizes the doubts and failures of the crew.
RATING: "d12 - A Heckuva Lotta Fun"
Company: Theatre Unbound
Venue: Intermedia Arts
Die Roll: 8
Back to the scent-free venue. This time I made sure I was, indeed, scent-free.
And I saw a fun and whimsical show that made me smile. At 10 p.m. on a Tuesday, that's just what I was looking for.
Theatre Unbound is the female-centric theatre group here in the Twin Cities. They put on shows that are by women and about women without being harshly anti-male. Initially I heard about them doing a play about a group of women who decide to leave planet Earth, and I assumed that it was going to be about getting away from the evil that is men. Nope. That isn't mentioned at all. That makes me happy. This play was about the female charcters, their relationships, their doubts and dreams.
Some of the best moments: Encountering the "Frightenoids," and the visit to Nursery 42.
One thing that may confuse a little is the Salt Monster. But if you listen to the mantra of the monster ("Turn Back"), you can accept that in one way or another he symbolizes the doubts and failures of the crew.
RATING: "d12 - A Heckuva Lotta Fun"
Day 6 -- 8:30 p.m. Time Slot
Show: DB Cooper Didn't Die
Company: Cheap Theater
Venue: Interact Theater
Die Roll: 2
I've sort of wondered what happened to Cheap Theater over the last few years. When I moved to the Twin Cities 7 years ago, they produced stuff with relative regularity. Not so much any more. Their shows have always been of good quality, and this show is no exception. Erica Christ's gang puts on a show that informs and entertains. Highlights include performances by Joshua Scrimshaw and Laura Wiebers. Scrimshaw takes the show to all sorts of new levels during a scene in which he plays both characters in a bar talking about holding a DB Cooper-themed party. Wiebers is one of a number of characters who took their places among the audience. He character often butted in with inane comments of a conspiracy theorist.
One doesn't have to know the story of DB Cooper to ejony this show. The company provides all the info you need. I had no knowledge of the hijacking that this play is about. It happened two years to the day before I was born.
I laughed a lot at this, and came away feeling enriched, too. That's something that is a first for this year's Fringe.
I've got a new show to put in my top five.
RATING: "d20 - One of the Best"
Company: Cheap Theater
Venue: Interact Theater
Die Roll: 2
I've sort of wondered what happened to Cheap Theater over the last few years. When I moved to the Twin Cities 7 years ago, they produced stuff with relative regularity. Not so much any more. Their shows have always been of good quality, and this show is no exception. Erica Christ's gang puts on a show that informs and entertains. Highlights include performances by Joshua Scrimshaw and Laura Wiebers. Scrimshaw takes the show to all sorts of new levels during a scene in which he plays both characters in a bar talking about holding a DB Cooper-themed party. Wiebers is one of a number of characters who took their places among the audience. He character often butted in with inane comments of a conspiracy theorist.
One doesn't have to know the story of DB Cooper to ejony this show. The company provides all the info you need. I had no knowledge of the hijacking that this play is about. It happened two years to the day before I was born.
I laughed a lot at this, and came away feeling enriched, too. That's something that is a first for this year's Fringe.
I've got a new show to put in my top five.
RATING: "d20 - One of the Best"
Tuesday, August 09, 2005
Day 6 -- The Beginning
First things first... I have had an oddly high number of performers come up to me and tell me that they read my blog and then they ask if I can make sure to see their show. Folks! Either you aren't reading my blog, or you're not paying attention. Here's a bit of review. I roll on random dice charts to determine my schedule! I can't "make sure" to see your show. Quit asking, or at least quit pretending that you're one of my regular readers.
As for promoting a show here or there, I might do that. If that's what you want to ask me to do, then just ask. Like my friend May Mahala. May has acted in one play that I wrote, and done a reading of another of mine. It is fair to say that she is one of my favorite people in the Twin Cities theatre scene. Well, May wrote part of the Works/Plays offering in this year's Fringe, and though I have no idea if I'll be able to make it, I recommend you do. She's worthy of your support, and if her playwriting is as good as her acting, you'll be pleased.
This evening I will only be able to attend the last two shows (read 8:30 & 10:00 p.m.). It is ballet & tap lesson night for my daughter, and I will be attending as an involved parent.
Randomly speaking:
I forgot to put forth a bit of trivia yesterday!
"Chipmunks aren't supposed to live inside houses." -- A pearl of wisdom from today's episode of "The Berenstein Bears" on TPT 2. Say, are bears supposed to live inside houses? Just wondering.
There is an oscillating fan in my living room that, even on its highest setting, doesn't do musch in the way of keeping me cool.
Trivia for today: "Berea, KY, It is illegal to shoot clay pigeons during the breeding season." -- I'm so proud to say I was born in that state. Hey people! Clay pigeons don't breed!
Grass can get remarkably long.
Have you ever wondered why?
As for promoting a show here or there, I might do that. If that's what you want to ask me to do, then just ask. Like my friend May Mahala. May has acted in one play that I wrote, and done a reading of another of mine. It is fair to say that she is one of my favorite people in the Twin Cities theatre scene. Well, May wrote part of the Works/Plays offering in this year's Fringe, and though I have no idea if I'll be able to make it, I recommend you do. She's worthy of your support, and if her playwriting is as good as her acting, you'll be pleased.
This evening I will only be able to attend the last two shows (read 8:30 & 10:00 p.m.). It is ballet & tap lesson night for my daughter, and I will be attending as an involved parent.
Randomly speaking:
I forgot to put forth a bit of trivia yesterday! "Chipmunks aren't supposed to live inside houses." -- A pearl of wisdom from today's episode of "The Berenstein Bears" on TPT 2. Say, are bears supposed to live inside houses? Just wondering. There is an oscillating fan in my living room that, even on its highest setting, doesn't do musch in the way of keeping me cool. Trivia for today: "Berea, KY, It is illegal to shoot clay pigeons during the breeding season." -- I'm so proud to say I was born in that state. Hey people! Clay pigeons don't breed! Grass can get remarkably long. Have you ever wondered why?
Day 5 -- 11:30 p.m. Time Slot
Show: Tantrums, Testicles, and Trojans
Company: Empty S Productions
Venue: Theatre Garage
Die Roll: 19 (as if it matters, it is the only show in this time slot)
Finally a show that stands out for high praise! Now, this is not to say that I haven't seen good shows thus far. I have dubbed two as some of the best in the Fringe. However, my overall Fringe experience this year has been one of mediocrity. Following the roll of the dice last year uncovered a number of treasures, and this year even the successful shows that I've attended weren't as memorable, nor as daring, nor as exceptional as their counterparts from last year. So, it is with great joy that I saw Michael Shaeffer's show last night.
The show is just Michael center stage reciting his poetry. But there is something special about his poetry. It dares to not take itself seriously. The poetry that is featured in this show is well-written, well-informed, and well... just plain funny. Other reviews I've read have commented that certain poems went too far down the road of impropriety, but I beg to differ. Homer and Marge Simpson's sexual encounters are immensely funny.
Intellectual and pop-cultural topics are lampooned side by side, and sometimes within the same breath. There is only one other poet that I've heard that is comparable, and that is Ari Hoptman. Brilliant stuff.
I would recommend this show to anyone old enough to be out past midnight in Minneapolis.
In fact, because it is often the only show in its time slot (occasionally it is up against the Scrimshaw Brothers), I'm assuming that I'll get to see it at least one more time, and thus far it is the only show in the Fringe that I would want to see a second time.
RATING: "d20 - One of the Best"
Company: Empty S Productions
Venue: Theatre Garage
Die Roll: 19 (as if it matters, it is the only show in this time slot)
Finally a show that stands out for high praise! Now, this is not to say that I haven't seen good shows thus far. I have dubbed two as some of the best in the Fringe. However, my overall Fringe experience this year has been one of mediocrity. Following the roll of the dice last year uncovered a number of treasures, and this year even the successful shows that I've attended weren't as memorable, nor as daring, nor as exceptional as their counterparts from last year. So, it is with great joy that I saw Michael Shaeffer's show last night.
The show is just Michael center stage reciting his poetry. But there is something special about his poetry. It dares to not take itself seriously. The poetry that is featured in this show is well-written, well-informed, and well... just plain funny. Other reviews I've read have commented that certain poems went too far down the road of impropriety, but I beg to differ. Homer and Marge Simpson's sexual encounters are immensely funny.
Intellectual and pop-cultural topics are lampooned side by side, and sometimes within the same breath. There is only one other poet that I've heard that is comparable, and that is Ari Hoptman. Brilliant stuff.
I would recommend this show to anyone old enough to be out past midnight in Minneapolis.
In fact, because it is often the only show in its time slot (occasionally it is up against the Scrimshaw Brothers), I'm assuming that I'll get to see it at least one more time, and thus far it is the only show in the Fringe that I would want to see a second time.
RATING: "d20 - One of the Best"
Day 5 -- 10:00 p.m. Time Slot
Show: Trip Open
Company: Batting Eyelashes
Venue: Acadia
Die Roll: 13
Well, here's a show that I mentioned briefly before the festival got started. This is the show wherein the Director...no, wait...he calls himself an Experimental Designer...Anyway, in which the Director claims that with this show he is creating a "new paradigm of theatre."
Okay, making a statement like that is bold. It is akin to calling yourself a genius. A very few people can get away with that. So, I went into this show wanting to see if this theatrical whipper-snapper was going to make good on his promise.
What exactly was that promise? Well, in his blurb in the program he claimed to not be directing, but designing an experience for the audience. This is the point at which he lost me. First, you can't design another person's experience. You can design something to be experienced, and you can anticipate the experience that might be had, but you can't design a person's actual experience. My experience with this play is that I started to nod off part way through. Did he design that?!
What this production lacked was a director. Someone to guide it down a cohesive path and make the actors work together toward a vision and goal. Someone to watch what was going on and make sure it worked.
This is a play with potential. It needs at least one more rewrite, as there are huge leaps in the dialogue, the characters spout knowledge of each other that they have had no way of gathering. The banter is often forced, and there's a good bout of why-should-we-care going on. But, with good direction, some of thsoe weaknesses could have been addressed.
I'm not sure that this new paradigm was supposed to be, but what I found it to be was a production at the level of a college class project. I'm pretty sure that's been done before.
RATING: "d6 - Has Some Merit"
Company: Batting Eyelashes
Venue: Acadia
Die Roll: 13
Well, here's a show that I mentioned briefly before the festival got started. This is the show wherein the Director...no, wait...he calls himself an Experimental Designer...Anyway, in which the Director claims that with this show he is creating a "new paradigm of theatre."
Okay, making a statement like that is bold. It is akin to calling yourself a genius. A very few people can get away with that. So, I went into this show wanting to see if this theatrical whipper-snapper was going to make good on his promise.
What exactly was that promise? Well, in his blurb in the program he claimed to not be directing, but designing an experience for the audience. This is the point at which he lost me. First, you can't design another person's experience. You can design something to be experienced, and you can anticipate the experience that might be had, but you can't design a person's actual experience. My experience with this play is that I started to nod off part way through. Did he design that?!
What this production lacked was a director. Someone to guide it down a cohesive path and make the actors work together toward a vision and goal. Someone to watch what was going on and make sure it worked.
This is a play with potential. It needs at least one more rewrite, as there are huge leaps in the dialogue, the characters spout knowledge of each other that they have had no way of gathering. The banter is often forced, and there's a good bout of why-should-we-care going on. But, with good direction, some of thsoe weaknesses could have been addressed.
I'm not sure that this new paradigm was supposed to be, but what I found it to be was a production at the level of a college class project. I'm pretty sure that's been done before.
RATING: "d6 - Has Some Merit"
Day 5 -- 7:00 p.m. & 8:30 Time Slots
I rolled an 8 on my dice, and that had me headed to the Mpls Theatre Garage, but my hunger and my need to hit the little boys room took me on a detour to Rudolph's BBQ across the street. I had a pulled pork sandwich and fries. Also, I tried some beer from Colorado that was called a Belgian White. It was nummy. First American beer that I'm really a fan of.
Best thing about this pit stop? The fact that Monday Night Football was on. I'd forgotten about the game, but my serendipitous discovery of it made me happy. The food did, too. It's good to be able to enjoy pork again.
Because I was supposed to be at the Theatre Garage for the 7 p.m. Time Slot, I opted to head over there for the 8:30 p.m. slot. Sort of a make-good. Well, guess what? There wasn't a show there. I bumped into Theatre technician extraordinaire Debbie Tallen. Who informed me tht thte show in that time slot had pulled out of the Fringe days before the whole thing started. I spent a pleasant hour chatting with her, catching up on the backstage news.
At 9:30 I took off for my 10 p.m. show.
Best thing about this pit stop? The fact that Monday Night Football was on. I'd forgotten about the game, but my serendipitous discovery of it made me happy. The food did, too. It's good to be able to enjoy pork again.
Because I was supposed to be at the Theatre Garage for the 7 p.m. Time Slot, I opted to head over there for the 8:30 p.m. slot. Sort of a make-good. Well, guess what? There wasn't a show there. I bumped into Theatre technician extraordinaire Debbie Tallen. Who informed me tht thte show in that time slot had pulled out of the Fringe days before the whole thing started. I spent a pleasant hour chatting with her, catching up on the backstage news.
At 9:30 I took off for my 10 p.m. show.
Day 5 -- 5:30 p.m. Time Slot
Show: Pentecostal Wisconsin
Company: Ryan Paulson
Venue: Acadia
Die Roll: 1
Something about die rolling... In many RPGs (Role Playing Games) rolling a 1 is the worst possible thing you can do. It is called a "Critical Miss" or "Critical Failure." However, with this show, and the other that I've rolled a 1 on, I've had nothing but Critical Success.
I didn't really know what to expect on a Monday night at 5:30 p.m. Even though the first two showings of this one-man show sold out, I was surprised to see a SRO (Standing Room Only) performance so shortly after the end of the work day on a Monday.
This is a fun show. Ryan is a good performer, and his stories about growing up in the Assemblies of God church in Eau Claire, WI, were entertaining. However, this play clearly goes over better with those who are at least familiar with the realm of regular church going. It pokes fun at Lutherans (a bit of schtick that has worked out pretty well for Garrison Keillor), and at the Pentecostals. But if you attended any standard church that had a youth group and prayer group and drama group, then you'll identify with the contents.
Unfortunately for me (or fortunately, really), I was raised Quaker. What that means is that I didn't go through much of what is being described in this play, and I have no frame of reference for the stuff that Mr. Paulson is talking about. We did occasionally attended Methodist churches when a Quaker Meeting wasn't available, but when it comes right down to it, a member of a denomination that doesn't follow much of the ritual of other Christian denominations can't identify in the way that an audience member needs to to make this show a rockin' success.
RATING: "d12 - A Heckuva Lotta Fun"
Company: Ryan Paulson
Venue: Acadia
Die Roll: 1
Something about die rolling... In many RPGs (Role Playing Games) rolling a 1 is the worst possible thing you can do. It is called a "Critical Miss" or "Critical Failure." However, with this show, and the other that I've rolled a 1 on, I've had nothing but Critical Success.
I didn't really know what to expect on a Monday night at 5:30 p.m. Even though the first two showings of this one-man show sold out, I was surprised to see a SRO (Standing Room Only) performance so shortly after the end of the work day on a Monday.
This is a fun show. Ryan is a good performer, and his stories about growing up in the Assemblies of God church in Eau Claire, WI, were entertaining. However, this play clearly goes over better with those who are at least familiar with the realm of regular church going. It pokes fun at Lutherans (a bit of schtick that has worked out pretty well for Garrison Keillor), and at the Pentecostals. But if you attended any standard church that had a youth group and prayer group and drama group, then you'll identify with the contents.
Unfortunately for me (or fortunately, really), I was raised Quaker. What that means is that I didn't go through much of what is being described in this play, and I have no frame of reference for the stuff that Mr. Paulson is talking about. We did occasionally attended Methodist churches when a Quaker Meeting wasn't available, but when it comes right down to it, a member of a denomination that doesn't follow much of the ritual of other Christian denominations can't identify in the way that an audience member needs to to make this show a rockin' success.
RATING: "d12 - A Heckuva Lotta Fun"
Monday, August 08, 2005
Day 5 -- The Beginning
Well, it is the morning of the 5th day of the Fringe Festival, and I'm still not doing too well. I'm looking at needing to go to the doctor. I'll have to make that phone call in a few minutes here. The nice thing about the weekdays, is that there is time to do other things. That's important because I have laundry and dishes to do. I'd think about mowing the lawn, too, but the rain this morning has the grass soaked. Maybe later in the afternoon. The first show for today isn't until the 5:30 p.m.
Okay... So where's the random stuff?
Peter Jennings died last night. ABC interrupted local programming (specifically "Sports Wrap") to announce the news.
Today's word of the day is "INADVERTENTLY." Whenever you hear or read that word, scream real loud!
I had my first bit of pork since coming back yesterday. It was in the form of ham on a sandwich. I didn't die or anything, so I then also had bacon when I ate a "GLBT" (Guacamole, Lettuce, Bacon & Tomato) at the Acadia. I might try ribs tonight after a late-night show.
INADVERTENTLY
There has to be an answer somewhere.
Okay... So where's the random stuff?
Peter Jennings died last night. ABC interrupted local programming (specifically "Sports Wrap") to announce the news. Today's word of the day is "INADVERTENTLY." Whenever you hear or read that word, scream real loud! I had my first bit of pork since coming back yesterday. It was in the form of ham on a sandwich. I didn't die or anything, so I then also had bacon when I ate a "GLBT" (Guacamole, Lettuce, Bacon & Tomato) at the Acadia. I might try ribs tonight after a late-night show. INADVERTENTLY There has to be an answer somewhere.
Day 4 -- The Rest
Although I saw many more shows today than I have on others, I have just been completely wiped out, and my body is still revolting (think what you will about the word choice!).
I headed for home and extra rest in hopes that I will be completely healthy for the rest of the Fringe. If not, Monday or Tuesday probably holds a doctor's visit for me.
I headed for home and extra rest in hopes that I will be completely healthy for the rest of the Fringe. If not, Monday or Tuesday probably holds a doctor's visit for me.
Day 4 -- 7 p.m. Time Slot
Show: Meditations on Arion
Company: Nautilus Music Theater
Venue: Illusion
Die Roll: 1
Well, Jennifer Baldwin Peden is blond again! Upon arriving back in America earlier this month, one of the first things I saw on TV was a Slumberland advertisement starring Jen and a little girl, both brunettes. So, I was thinking of her in that way. Not that that has any relevence on this show at all, but it is the first thing I noticed when she hit the stage.
The presentation starts with a long monologue about the nature of drowning. I figure this is a good place for this show to start since last year's Fringe offering ended with the drowning of Virginia Woolf. Why not start right where Nautilus left off last year?
One of the nice things about Jennifer is her overwhelmingly positive stage presence. I hadn't expected this show to start with all sorts of talk with no singing, but it does. And yet, I didn't mind. I discovered that with the right delivery, it is possible to listen to a pseudo-scientific analysis of drowning all day long.
Once Jen started to sing, the beauty of her voice, the passion she put into her songs, the interactions between her and the trio of instrumentalists that joined her on stage was captivating.
I kept meaning to take notes on this performance, but I have a lot of blank space because I was sucked in to what was going on onstage.
RATING - "d20 - One of the Best"
Company: Nautilus Music Theater
Venue: Illusion
Die Roll: 1
Well, Jennifer Baldwin Peden is blond again! Upon arriving back in America earlier this month, one of the first things I saw on TV was a Slumberland advertisement starring Jen and a little girl, both brunettes. So, I was thinking of her in that way. Not that that has any relevence on this show at all, but it is the first thing I noticed when she hit the stage.
The presentation starts with a long monologue about the nature of drowning. I figure this is a good place for this show to start since last year's Fringe offering ended with the drowning of Virginia Woolf. Why not start right where Nautilus left off last year?
One of the nice things about Jennifer is her overwhelmingly positive stage presence. I hadn't expected this show to start with all sorts of talk with no singing, but it does. And yet, I didn't mind. I discovered that with the right delivery, it is possible to listen to a pseudo-scientific analysis of drowning all day long.
Once Jen started to sing, the beauty of her voice, the passion she put into her songs, the interactions between her and the trio of instrumentalists that joined her on stage was captivating.
I kept meaning to take notes on this performance, but I have a lot of blank space because I was sucked in to what was going on onstage.
RATING - "d20 - One of the Best"
Day 4 -- 5:30 p.m. Time Slot
Show: Self-Helpless
Company: Pail & Shovel Party Productions
Venue: Acadia
Die Roll: 11
This is a play that revolves around a set of characters that are all confronting their fears. One of which is stage-fright. Ironically, one of the leads, two days before the festival, declared themselves too afraid, and dropped out of the show. I kid you not. The replacement actress did a good job of filling in, though, so kudos to her.
The show itself was slow moving, and the jokes were few and far between. It had the feel of an improv skit that was funny the first time around and then repeated a couple of times until the energy was no longer fresh and the jokes no longer humorous. A lot of the humor that comes along with improv is that it is spontaneous. A lot of it loses its luster on the second showing. So it feels with this show.
Side thing... If the entire audience looks at the speakers each time you play a sound cue, you've set the levels too high. Turn 'em down.
RATING: "d8 - Not Bad, Not Great"
Company: Pail & Shovel Party Productions
Venue: Acadia
Die Roll: 11
This is a play that revolves around a set of characters that are all confronting their fears. One of which is stage-fright. Ironically, one of the leads, two days before the festival, declared themselves too afraid, and dropped out of the show. I kid you not. The replacement actress did a good job of filling in, though, so kudos to her.
The show itself was slow moving, and the jokes were few and far between. It had the feel of an improv skit that was funny the first time around and then repeated a couple of times until the energy was no longer fresh and the jokes no longer humorous. A lot of the humor that comes along with improv is that it is spontaneous. A lot of it loses its luster on the second showing. So it feels with this show.
Side thing... If the entire audience looks at the speakers each time you play a sound cue, you've set the levels too high. Turn 'em down.
RATING: "d8 - Not Bad, Not Great"
Sunday, August 07, 2005
Day 4 -- 4:00 p.m. Time Slot
I'm currently sitting in the Acadia. i needed food, and decided to submit as many of my blogs as I could before the 5:30 p.m. Time Slot.
So, there's that.
OOOH... Personal side note to someone who sat behind me at one of the shows I've seen so far. If you bring your 4 year-old to the show, try not to put them up on your lap in a way that repeatedly swats and kicks the person in front of you. I have a 6 year-old daughter and I'll be happy to show you a number of ways you can get your child on to your lap without injuring the person in front of you who happens to be reviewing your husband's show. Thanks!
So, there's that.
OOOH... Personal side note to someone who sat behind me at one of the shows I've seen so far. If you bring your 4 year-old to the show, try not to put them up on your lap in a way that repeatedly swats and kicks the person in front of you. I have a 6 year-old daughter and I'll be happy to show you a number of ways you can get your child on to your lap without injuring the person in front of you who happens to be reviewing your husband's show. Thanks!
Day 4 -- 2:30 p.m. Time Slot
Show: Stripped
Company: Ballet of the Dolls
Venue: Southern Theater
Die Roll: 2
The moment the soundtrack for this show hits your ears, you realize just how much of a technical advantage those companies that were lucky enough to get into the Southern have over the other venues. Yowsa! As of right now, were I to put up a show at the Fringe, that's the venue I'd choose. The lighting and sound possibilties more than make up for the fact that you have to deal with a Marley floor.
Anyway, let's talk about "The Dolls." If you've been around here in the TC for any length of time, you've heard of this company. It is a resident group that works well together, and has for years. It is best known for the show it did for years called Nutcracker: Not So Sweet.
So, you might guess that this was a well-danced show. It was.
And I'm sure that much of what went on in the show was very good in telling a story, if you had enough information to process what the heck they were doing. Here's the problem. This show is about phobias. That's not a problem in and of itself, what is a problem, is that they address 8 phobias, and I'm only familiar with two of them. A list of definitions would've been useful. What fears were being addressed is important to know if one is to understand the show in its entirety. Which I can't say I did. The movements sure were pretty, though. I'll look up the other six when I get home and have my dictionary available to me.
RATING: "d10 - Worth Going To"
Company: Ballet of the Dolls
Venue: Southern Theater
Die Roll: 2
The moment the soundtrack for this show hits your ears, you realize just how much of a technical advantage those companies that were lucky enough to get into the Southern have over the other venues. Yowsa! As of right now, were I to put up a show at the Fringe, that's the venue I'd choose. The lighting and sound possibilties more than make up for the fact that you have to deal with a Marley floor.
Anyway, let's talk about "The Dolls." If you've been around here in the TC for any length of time, you've heard of this company. It is a resident group that works well together, and has for years. It is best known for the show it did for years called Nutcracker: Not So Sweet.
So, you might guess that this was a well-danced show. It was.
And I'm sure that much of what went on in the show was very good in telling a story, if you had enough information to process what the heck they were doing. Here's the problem. This show is about phobias. That's not a problem in and of itself, what is a problem, is that they address 8 phobias, and I'm only familiar with two of them. A list of definitions would've been useful. What fears were being addressed is important to know if one is to understand the show in its entirety. Which I can't say I did. The movements sure were pretty, though. I'll look up the other six when I get home and have my dictionary available to me.
RATING: "d10 - Worth Going To"
Day 4 -- 1:00 p.m. Time Slot
Show: Eat, Drink, Marry
Company: Hurley & Dancers
Venue: Southern Theatre
Die Roll: 17
This show marks the first time I've ever been in the Southern for something other than Balls Cabaret. It felt a little odd being there before midnight. However, I sat up high and near the back as I normally do for Balls, so at least I felt a little at home.
In stark contrast to yesterday's offering in the dance genre, this piece was very well danced, very well executed, and very well guided. i use the word guided here because thought the first dance of this show didn't tell a story, it was clear what was going on. Well, that is to say, it didn't tell a story in a linear form. what it did do was play with the concept of victorian manners in conflict with same-sex marriage. Not a wholely inappropriate mix, since our country is highly affected by one (the Victorian mindset) and obsessed with the other (the same-sex stuff).
The piece was really well done, especially since most of it wasn't set to music. There were some pieces of music interspersed, but most of the dance was done to spoken text taken from the US Constitution, the Defense of Marriage Act, a guide to manners.
The second dance of the evening was a whimsical thing about being a bridesmaid. It also was well danced, and enjoyable. It had less to say than the other, but it is a fun chaser.
Note to the company... You don't have to over explain what the purpose of your dance is, or how it was put together. Let it stand on its own, it is strong enough to. The notes in the program defending Madoern Dance as an artform that is harder than it looks is already prbably not necessary, but to cap it off with a speech mid-show just kills the rhythm of an otherwise enjoyable time.
RATING: "d12 - A Heckuva Lotta Fun"
Company: Hurley & Dancers
Venue: Southern Theatre
Die Roll: 17
This show marks the first time I've ever been in the Southern for something other than Balls Cabaret. It felt a little odd being there before midnight. However, I sat up high and near the back as I normally do for Balls, so at least I felt a little at home.
In stark contrast to yesterday's offering in the dance genre, this piece was very well danced, very well executed, and very well guided. i use the word guided here because thought the first dance of this show didn't tell a story, it was clear what was going on. Well, that is to say, it didn't tell a story in a linear form. what it did do was play with the concept of victorian manners in conflict with same-sex marriage. Not a wholely inappropriate mix, since our country is highly affected by one (the Victorian mindset) and obsessed with the other (the same-sex stuff).
The piece was really well done, especially since most of it wasn't set to music. There were some pieces of music interspersed, but most of the dance was done to spoken text taken from the US Constitution, the Defense of Marriage Act, a guide to manners.
The second dance of the evening was a whimsical thing about being a bridesmaid. It also was well danced, and enjoyable. It had less to say than the other, but it is a fun chaser.
Note to the company... You don't have to over explain what the purpose of your dance is, or how it was put together. Let it stand on its own, it is strong enough to. The notes in the program defending Madoern Dance as an artform that is harder than it looks is already prbably not necessary, but to cap it off with a speech mid-show just kills the rhythm of an otherwise enjoyable time.
RATING: "d12 - A Heckuva Lotta Fun"
Day 4 -- The Beginning
GOOD MORNING!
Finally I feel as if I'm back in America and that I feel good about it!!!
I got a bunch of extra sleep last night and I'm no longer trying to Fringe in a jet-lagged body. Now maybe people will stop telling me I look like Hell when they see me in the lobby of a show.
My day is starting on an up note. So I'm looking forward to seeing these shows. I'm really hoping to see some stuff that will set my mind ablaze with perceived brilliance.
Please! Please! Please! Let that happen!
As if the rest of my colmun isn't random enough:
I am a chronic people watcher. During my chat with Charlie Bathel yesterday I suddenly became painfully aware of how often I was distracted by people walking by. I have to break that habit. I'm sorry, Charlie.
There is a book sitting next to me at the moment titled "Born to be a Butterfly." It must be my daughter's, at least I hope it is.
So, I called my parents yesterday and spoke with them very briefly. I have never been essentially dismissed from a phone call by my mother so quickly and abruptly. It is joked about how long it often takes to end a conversation in my family on the phone. Saying goodbye can take days (hyperbole). And you'll often get three or four more minutes of additional conversation between the three requisite goodbyes.
I'm currently watching a story about the space shuttle. Something that frustrates me about the media, NASA and everything else regarding the "Foam" problem...At what point did we forget that space travel is risky. Once upon a time, at the beginning of the space race we had test pilots and astronauts dying with some regularity. We didn't give up on space entirely. Everyone who goes up in the shuttle knows fully well that they're putting their lives on the line for the advancement of human knowledge. It's a risk that they are taking. We will not have a successful program until the media and the pundits just let them do what they need to do. Let the astronauts put their lives on the line. We don't suspend military actions when soldiers die, we don't stop police departments from doing their work when an officer gets killed. People who take on risky jobs understand the risks. Let them get on with it!
Trivia...: "The Roman Emperor Nero never wore the same clothes twice." -- I think I know some people today who fit this description, too.
Finally I feel as if I'm back in America and that I feel good about it!!!
I got a bunch of extra sleep last night and I'm no longer trying to Fringe in a jet-lagged body. Now maybe people will stop telling me I look like Hell when they see me in the lobby of a show.
My day is starting on an up note. So I'm looking forward to seeing these shows. I'm really hoping to see some stuff that will set my mind ablaze with perceived brilliance.
Please! Please! Please! Let that happen!
As if the rest of my colmun isn't random enough:
I am a chronic people watcher. During my chat with Charlie Bathel yesterday I suddenly became painfully aware of how often I was distracted by people walking by. I have to break that habit. I'm sorry, Charlie. There is a book sitting next to me at the moment titled "Born to be a Butterfly." It must be my daughter's, at least I hope it is. So, I called my parents yesterday and spoke with them very briefly. I have never been essentially dismissed from a phone call by my mother so quickly and abruptly. It is joked about how long it often takes to end a conversation in my family on the phone. Saying goodbye can take days (hyperbole). And you'll often get three or four more minutes of additional conversation between the three requisite goodbyes. I'm currently watching a story about the space shuttle. Something that frustrates me about the media, NASA and everything else regarding the "Foam" problem...At what point did we forget that space travel is risky. Once upon a time, at the beginning of the space race we had test pilots and astronauts dying with some regularity. We didn't give up on space entirely. Everyone who goes up in the shuttle knows fully well that they're putting their lives on the line for the advancement of human knowledge. It's a risk that they are taking. We will not have a successful program until the media and the pundits just let them do what they need to do. Let the astronauts put their lives on the line. We don't suspend military actions when soldiers die, we don't stop police departments from doing their work when an officer gets killed. People who take on risky jobs understand the risks. Let them get on with it! Trivia...: "The Roman Emperor Nero never wore the same clothes twice." -- I think I know some people today who fit this description, too.
Day 3 -- The Rest
I headed for home for the rest of the night. I was not feeling well, and I wanted to have supper with my family. So, I did that and then went to bed really early. I slept from 6 p.m.-ish until midnight and then from 1 a.m. to 7 a.m. this morning. Finally I feel a little better.
Day 3 -- 2:30 p.m. Time Slot
Show: Treading Lightly
Company: Melissa Brown and Dancers
Venue: Intermedia Arts
Die Roll: 4
I'm a little frustrated by the venue here. This is the "Scent-Free" location of the Fringe. What does that mean? Well, it means that when you walk in, you get a little flyer that informs you about folks who have allergies to artificial scents. It also means that you are confronted with a request (via a sign) that you remove yourself to teh bathroom to wash off anby scented materials you might be wearing.
I wear cologne. Not an overwhelming amount, but some. I wear anti-perspirant, not unlike most Americans. I use a scented moisturizer as the fellahs from Queer Eye have told me is immensely important for my skin.
I must admit, I didn't go bathe myself prior to going into the show, but I also sat there feeling a litle guilty about it. That is...until I saw the show.
The show was a series of dances all choreographed by Melissa Brown. The choreography was technically interesting, but there didn't seem to be a single storyline to the dances. Now, not every dance requires a storyline. However, that being gone, I expect the presentation to be so strong that the dances survive on their own merit. Unfortunately, the dancers were either at varied levels of skill, or they were rehearsed for different lengths of time (even within the same dance).
I was confused as to whether the dancers were supposed to look that drastically different desptie doing the same steps, or if it was merely imprecision.
I guess that's the entirety of my thoughts on that. Otherwise it basically bored me.
RATING: "d6 - Has Some Merit
Company: Melissa Brown and Dancers
Venue: Intermedia Arts
Die Roll: 4
I'm a little frustrated by the venue here. This is the "Scent-Free" location of the Fringe. What does that mean? Well, it means that when you walk in, you get a little flyer that informs you about folks who have allergies to artificial scents. It also means that you are confronted with a request (via a sign) that you remove yourself to teh bathroom to wash off anby scented materials you might be wearing.
I wear cologne. Not an overwhelming amount, but some. I wear anti-perspirant, not unlike most Americans. I use a scented moisturizer as the fellahs from Queer Eye have told me is immensely important for my skin.
I must admit, I didn't go bathe myself prior to going into the show, but I also sat there feeling a litle guilty about it. That is...until I saw the show.
The show was a series of dances all choreographed by Melissa Brown. The choreography was technically interesting, but there didn't seem to be a single storyline to the dances. Now, not every dance requires a storyline. However, that being gone, I expect the presentation to be so strong that the dances survive on their own merit. Unfortunately, the dancers were either at varied levels of skill, or they were rehearsed for different lengths of time (even within the same dance).
I was confused as to whether the dancers were supposed to look that drastically different desptie doing the same steps, or if it was merely imprecision.
I guess that's the entirety of my thoughts on that. Otherwise it basically bored me.
RATING: "d6 - Has Some Merit
Day 3 -- 1 p.m. Time Slot
Show: The Narrator
Company: The Lounge Peanut
Venue: The Jungle Theater
Die Roll: 10
One of the things that I love about the Fringe Festival is how before each show you can meet all sorts of people. Now, being that I am who I am, I tend to meet two types of people before the shows: Other theatre people, and people who read my blog and would like to tell me what they think of it. Luckily on this particular visit to the Jungle, I met up with Phillip Low of Maximum Verbosity and Charlie Bethel who is doing his own Gilgamesh for this year's Fringe. Both are interested in ancient myth and telling those myths through theatre. I love talking about that stuff! It was a nice half hour spent priot to the show.
So, anyway, we eventually got into the theatre and got our programs. You know, you're got to like a company that thanks "The Sea" in its special thanks section of the program. Even after seeing the show, I'm not sure how that immense body of water directly affected the show, but it doesn't really matter.
The program also lists three actors, one of which is also the director, but it is important to know that the third character/director is really the stagehand. This is a two person show. Period. The main character is a narrator of a Film Noir-style presentation. He plays the piano, without possessing the skill to do so, and interacts with an attractive young waitress.
As the story progresses the style of teh show shifts. It goes into a restoration-style play and then into a living room comedy. All the while the two characters interact and the main character fulfills his role of Narrator.
It is the interaction between the two actors that is this play's weakness. The script is well-written. The actors each do well. But there is NO chemistry between them. I don't believe that they are even talking to each other. They each rehearsed their lines well, but they didn't do it in the same city apparently. The timing that could've made this really funny wasn't there because they were talking past each other. At times the strength of the script shines through despite the performance, but a solid yet unmotivated performance doesn't quite elevate this to the best group of shows.
RATING: "d10 - Worth Going To"
Company: The Lounge Peanut
Venue: The Jungle Theater
Die Roll: 10
One of the things that I love about the Fringe Festival is how before each show you can meet all sorts of people. Now, being that I am who I am, I tend to meet two types of people before the shows: Other theatre people, and people who read my blog and would like to tell me what they think of it. Luckily on this particular visit to the Jungle, I met up with Phillip Low of Maximum Verbosity and Charlie Bethel who is doing his own Gilgamesh for this year's Fringe. Both are interested in ancient myth and telling those myths through theatre. I love talking about that stuff! It was a nice half hour spent priot to the show.
So, anyway, we eventually got into the theatre and got our programs. You know, you're got to like a company that thanks "The Sea" in its special thanks section of the program. Even after seeing the show, I'm not sure how that immense body of water directly affected the show, but it doesn't really matter.
The program also lists three actors, one of which is also the director, but it is important to know that the third character/director is really the stagehand. This is a two person show. Period. The main character is a narrator of a Film Noir-style presentation. He plays the piano, without possessing the skill to do so, and interacts with an attractive young waitress.
As the story progresses the style of teh show shifts. It goes into a restoration-style play and then into a living room comedy. All the while the two characters interact and the main character fulfills his role of Narrator.
It is the interaction between the two actors that is this play's weakness. The script is well-written. The actors each do well. But there is NO chemistry between them. I don't believe that they are even talking to each other. They each rehearsed their lines well, but they didn't do it in the same city apparently. The timing that could've made this really funny wasn't there because they were talking past each other. At times the strength of the script shines through despite the performance, but a solid yet unmotivated performance doesn't quite elevate this to the best group of shows.
RATING: "d10 - Worth Going To"
Saturday, August 06, 2005
Day 3 -- The Beginning
After doing Fringe Prom last night, I'm pooped. But nothing will keep me from seeing shows today. I was thinking of going to the 12 noon show, but I wasn't up in time. That time slot only had one show available, so a die roll would've been moot. So, I guess, in keeping with the whole depending on the dice thing I'll see my first show at 1 p.m.
I've got very little else to say right now. I'm tired and distracted by the TV in the bckground and my daughter looking over my shoulder. So, I'm going to jump to the random bits and hit the road.
RANDOMNESS ABOUNDS:
My first die roll of the day was the #10.
I'm getting a lot of headaches since I came back to America. I'm thinking I need to go to a doctor.
Trivia Time: "58% of Americans believe they have above average IQ's." -- BRILLIANT!
I've got very little else to say right now. I'm tired and distracted by the TV in the bckground and my daughter looking over my shoulder. So, I'm going to jump to the random bits and hit the road.
RANDOMNESS ABOUNDS:
My first die roll of the day was the #10. I'm getting a lot of headaches since I came back to America. I'm thinking I need to go to a doctor. Trivia Time: "58% of Americans believe they have above average IQ's." -- BRILLIANT!
Talking With... -- Part 1:
As a continuing part of the feature articles on certain companies. Today's show is Talking With... presented by In The Basement Productions.
This show has a large cast of wonderful women who each do a monologue as part of the show. A show which, incidentally, is written by Jane Martin. For years Martin has been a mystery. In fact, no one has ever known if she's actually a woman, or a nom de plume of a fellah. ITBP Artistic Director Kristin Richardson weighed in with this thought: "we noticed that in the character description for the monologue 'Marks', the description says something about 'a woman in her 40's, but attractive.' Now, if Jane Martin really were a woman, she would have said 'a woman in her 40's, attractive.' A woman would not use 'BUT' -- we know that being in one's 40's does not exclude one from being percieved as attractive. Shame on Jane Martin!"
Now, that veiled accusation of masculinity aside, the women's monologues of this play show a wide variety of well-developed female characters. Mo Perry plays with a snake on stage. Kathy Kupiecki plays an actress that is sick of rejection. Kara Greshwalk plays an expectant mother, about to give birth to an abnormal baby. There are many others as well.
So, the show reportedly openned really well last night, and luckily the company found a snake just in the nick of time. Yes, there is a live snake in the show. And I know that's true because my friend Annie Scott, who attended the show last night was still visibly disturbed by that fact 2 hours later.
As I've mentioned before I really like this company. They do good stuff.
This show has a large cast of wonderful women who each do a monologue as part of the show. A show which, incidentally, is written by Jane Martin. For years Martin has been a mystery. In fact, no one has ever known if she's actually a woman, or a nom de plume of a fellah. ITBP Artistic Director Kristin Richardson weighed in with this thought: "we noticed that in the character description for the monologue 'Marks', the description says something about 'a woman in her 40's, but attractive.' Now, if Jane Martin really were a woman, she would have said 'a woman in her 40's, attractive.' A woman would not use 'BUT' -- we know that being in one's 40's does not exclude one from being percieved as attractive. Shame on Jane Martin!"
Now, that veiled accusation of masculinity aside, the women's monologues of this play show a wide variety of well-developed female characters. Mo Perry plays with a snake on stage. Kathy Kupiecki plays an actress that is sick of rejection. Kara Greshwalk plays an expectant mother, about to give birth to an abnormal baby. There are many others as well.
So, the show reportedly openned really well last night, and luckily the company found a snake just in the nick of time. Yes, there is a live snake in the show. And I know that's true because my friend Annie Scott, who attended the show last night was still visibly disturbed by that fact 2 hours later.
As I've mentioned before I really like this company. They do good stuff.
Day 2 -- 9:00 p.m. FRINGE PROM
So, the Fringe Prom was fun. It was a hybrid of an actual prom and a fringe showcase, and it was a nice combo of those two.
It was the place to see and be seen. It was a very lovely night and a great way to officially kick off Fringeville. I'm hoping that everyone else had a good time, too.
It was the place to see and be seen. It was a very lovely night and a great way to officially kick off Fringeville. I'm hoping that everyone else had a good time, too.
Friday, August 05, 2005
Day 2 -- 7:00 p.m. Time Slot
Show: Pentecostal Wisconsin
Company: Ryan Paulson
Venue: Acadia Cafe
Die Roll: 11
Okay, so I'm writing this from the Acadia Cafe. I'm writing it while the show is going on. That's probably a good indication that I'm not inside watching the show. After the frustrating drive from the Loring to the Acadia...That's not a long drive, how could it take so long!... The show ended up getting sold out before I could get in. That's great for Ryan, and judging by the samples of what I saw of his show from the Out-of-Towner preview, I can't say I'm surprised. It's got to be a good show. Unfortunately I can't tell you how good.
I did get two blog entries typed up, so that's something, isn't it?
Company: Ryan Paulson
Venue: Acadia Cafe
Die Roll: 11
Okay, so I'm writing this from the Acadia Cafe. I'm writing it while the show is going on. That's probably a good indication that I'm not inside watching the show. After the frustrating drive from the Loring to the Acadia...That's not a long drive, how could it take so long!... The show ended up getting sold out before I could get in. That's great for Ryan, and judging by the samples of what I saw of his show from the Out-of-Towner preview, I can't say I'm surprised. It's got to be a good show. Unfortunately I can't tell you how good.
I did get two blog entries typed up, so that's something, isn't it?
Day 2 -- 5:30 p.m. Time Slot
Show: Skits-Ophrenia!!! Starring Dean Hatton w/ Kirsten Stephens
Company: Dean Hatton
Venue: Loring Playhouse
Die Roll: 18
This show is a Mime showcase. Really, this seems to be my year for mime. One of the ladies who is attending the Fringe Prom with me tonight is a mime, one of yesterday's shows featured mime, and now I stagger into a mime show. It wasn't until I saw the very last sketch of this show that I'd realized that I'd seen Dean perform before. He's very good.
So, because I kept all of last night's reviews really short, I'm going to make up for it with this one and explain in excruciating and exquisite detail everything I enjoyed about this show!
The show starts with a nearly cinematic chase scene in which Dean and Kirsten exchange possession of a red tube multiple times while going up and down "escalators," "elevators," and "stairs." The whole thing gets pretty convoluted, but funny in a farcical way. The show was already amusing at this point, espeically in its cartoonish self-awareness. Then, when it all comes to an end, the payoff winds up being the Title poster for the show.
The first titled scene was "Too Much Sci-Fi." two things came to mind immediately. #1...Dean's costume was a Fringe 8 t-shirt! #2...the staff downstairs, and whoever was with them needed to quite down. During a mime show it is very likely that lobby noise can be heard in the audience.
Anyway, this scene was about a guy who falls asleep, imagines himself into the Star Wars trilogy, and then wakes up again.
Immediately afterward, Kirsten, who fulfills the role of assistant and sign holder for much of the show mocks the routine beautifully. In fact, it was equally as funny as the original sketch itself.
The second section of the show was titled "Family Values." It told the story of a guy who theoretically has the perfect life, but he also has a hidden habit of snorting coke. But apparently he's been doing it for too long, because he's no longer getting a buzz. What does he do? Starts snorting everything else! And I do mean everything! Including his child, his dog, and his wife! Yipe!
Scene 3: "Boogers: The Musical" ... I've never seen anything like this. A man in a tux picks his nose, then picks it a ssecond time. He gets a little snot monster on each index finger, and they come to life and start singing "All I Ask of You" from Phantom of the Opera. Part way through, Dean's character empathetically starts to sing on behalf of the boogers, serenading them. As an audience member I eventually went from being amused by the absurdity to being intrigued by the horrific possibilities... would he make the boogers kiss, thereby getting his fingers stuck? Would he dispose of them by popping them in his mouth? I'm not giving this one away... You'll have to see it.
There's a sketch called "Jackass the Mime," and another called "Shatner LSD." One word on each. Funny!
The last sketch is the one tht I've seen before at Balls a couple of years ago. It involves a gravedigger who is in love with a corpse. I laughed. i cried. I was Hor-ri-fied!
So far... best show I've seen this year.
RATING: "d20 - One of the Best!"
Company: Dean Hatton
Venue: Loring Playhouse
Die Roll: 18
This show is a Mime showcase. Really, this seems to be my year for mime. One of the ladies who is attending the Fringe Prom with me tonight is a mime, one of yesterday's shows featured mime, and now I stagger into a mime show. It wasn't until I saw the very last sketch of this show that I'd realized that I'd seen Dean perform before. He's very good.
So, because I kept all of last night's reviews really short, I'm going to make up for it with this one and explain in excruciating and exquisite detail everything I enjoyed about this show!
The show starts with a nearly cinematic chase scene in which Dean and Kirsten exchange possession of a red tube multiple times while going up and down "escalators," "elevators," and "stairs." The whole thing gets pretty convoluted, but funny in a farcical way. The show was already amusing at this point, espeically in its cartoonish self-awareness. Then, when it all comes to an end, the payoff winds up being the Title poster for the show.
The first titled scene was "Too Much Sci-Fi." two things came to mind immediately. #1...Dean's costume was a Fringe 8 t-shirt! #2...the staff downstairs, and whoever was with them needed to quite down. During a mime show it is very likely that lobby noise can be heard in the audience.
Anyway, this scene was about a guy who falls asleep, imagines himself into the Star Wars trilogy, and then wakes up again.
Immediately afterward, Kirsten, who fulfills the role of assistant and sign holder for much of the show mocks the routine beautifully. In fact, it was equally as funny as the original sketch itself.
The second section of the show was titled "Family Values." It told the story of a guy who theoretically has the perfect life, but he also has a hidden habit of snorting coke. But apparently he's been doing it for too long, because he's no longer getting a buzz. What does he do? Starts snorting everything else! And I do mean everything! Including his child, his dog, and his wife! Yipe!
Scene 3: "Boogers: The Musical" ... I've never seen anything like this. A man in a tux picks his nose, then picks it a ssecond time. He gets a little snot monster on each index finger, and they come to life and start singing "All I Ask of You" from Phantom of the Opera. Part way through, Dean's character empathetically starts to sing on behalf of the boogers, serenading them. As an audience member I eventually went from being amused by the absurdity to being intrigued by the horrific possibilities... would he make the boogers kiss, thereby getting his fingers stuck? Would he dispose of them by popping them in his mouth? I'm not giving this one away... You'll have to see it.
There's a sketch called "Jackass the Mime," and another called "Shatner LSD." One word on each. Funny!
The last sketch is the one tht I've seen before at Balls a couple of years ago. It involves a gravedigger who is in love with a corpse. I laughed. i cried. I was Hor-ri-fied!
So far... best show I've seen this year.
RATING: "d20 - One of the Best!"
Day 2 -- The beginning
I meant to get up a lot earlier today and start writing about all sorts of witty things, but now, since I have to make my way to Ragstock shortly to get an outfit for tonight's Prom (25% off Prom-wear with your Fringe Button!), I don't have as much time to write as I'd hoped.
So... At some point today I will be putting forth a couple of promotional articles about more shows that sent me info to do features on them. These will be the last ones that I cover in this way. I didn't get them done prior to the fest, but I feel an obligation to make sure they get done... so there's that.
The Fringe Festival is generlly not good for the cleanliness of my house. I need to do something about that. The festival is only one day old and I feel that I'm neglecting housework. Ugh!
Also, I clearly was not as prepared for the festival this year as I was last. I mean, I know that my charts aren't as pretty, and all that, but the biggest thing that I wasn't ready for was the need for snack foods and water. I must pick up some Cliff Bars if I'm going to try to do a straight shot through without stopping for a dinner break again.
RANDOM BITS:
My cell phone rang just moments after the completion of The Adventures of Can-Man! yesterday. I was ashamed. Had their show gone one even a minute or two longer, It would've rung during their show. My apologies. I never forget to turn off my phone. But then, that's a lie, because clearly yesterday I did.
My daughter just received a package in the mail from her grandparents (my mom & dad). This isn't really big news, other than I know that my parents read this blog, so it's my way of letting them know that it arrived safely.
The first word on Page 505 of the 2005-2006 YellowBook is "Doors."
We'll pause here a moment for something from Stuie's Trivia: "The term 'the whole nine yards' came from W.W.II fighter pilots in the South Pacific. When arming their airplanes on the ground, the .50 caliber machine-gun ammo belts measured exactly 27 feet before being loaded into the fuselage. If the pilots fired all their ammo at a target, it got 'the whole nine yards'." -- You see, I didn't know that at all. I always assumed that that phrase was derived from football. Although I'd also always wondered why it wasn't the whole 10 yards, since only going 9 yards isn't actually all that useful. It takes one more to get the first down. So, now, the phrase makes so much more sense to me. It's nice when you can have an epiphanal moment inspired by a bit of random trivia, isn't it?
So... At some point today I will be putting forth a couple of promotional articles about more shows that sent me info to do features on them. These will be the last ones that I cover in this way. I didn't get them done prior to the fest, but I feel an obligation to make sure they get done... so there's that.
The Fringe Festival is generlly not good for the cleanliness of my house. I need to do something about that. The festival is only one day old and I feel that I'm neglecting housework. Ugh!
Also, I clearly was not as prepared for the festival this year as I was last. I mean, I know that my charts aren't as pretty, and all that, but the biggest thing that I wasn't ready for was the need for snack foods and water. I must pick up some Cliff Bars if I'm going to try to do a straight shot through without stopping for a dinner break again.
RANDOM BITS:
My cell phone rang just moments after the completion of The Adventures of Can-Man! yesterday. I was ashamed. Had their show gone one even a minute or two longer, It would've rung during their show. My apologies. I never forget to turn off my phone. But then, that's a lie, because clearly yesterday I did. My daughter just received a package in the mail from her grandparents (my mom & dad). This isn't really big news, other than I know that my parents read this blog, so it's my way of letting them know that it arrived safely. The first word on Page 505 of the 2005-2006 YellowBook is "Doors." We'll pause here a moment for something from Stuie's Trivia: "The term 'the whole nine yards' came from W.W.II fighter pilots in the South Pacific. When arming their airplanes on the ground, the .50 caliber machine-gun ammo belts measured exactly 27 feet before being loaded into the fuselage. If the pilots fired all their ammo at a target, it got 'the whole nine yards'." -- You see, I didn't know that at all. I always assumed that that phrase was derived from football. Although I'd also always wondered why it wasn't the whole 10 yards, since only going 9 yards isn't actually all that useful. It takes one more to get the first down. So, now, the phrase makes so much more sense to me. It's nice when you can have an epiphanal moment inspired by a bit of random trivia, isn't it?
Day 1 -- 10:00 p.m. Time Slot
I didn't see a show during this slot. Instead I headed for Fringeville. WHile I was there I typed up my blog entries prior to this one until I got too darned tired and went home to sleep. Because of that, I also missed the 11:30 late-night time slot.
Incidentally, I should mention that I was joined by the lovely Erin Schroeder on the three shows that I did see. Erin has now been in three shows that I've directed. She has a lovely voice, and is great to work with. She also does the wigs out at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres. It was nice to start the Fringe with a fringe buddy!
Incidentally, I should mention that I was joined by the lovely Erin Schroeder on the three shows that I did see. Erin has now been in three shows that I've directed. She has a lovely voice, and is great to work with. She also does the wigs out at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres. It was nice to start the Fringe with a fringe buddy!
Thursday, August 04, 2005
Day 1 -- 8:30 p.m. Time Slot
Show: Is She Yours? And Other Questions: An Adoption Story
Company: Lisa's Ink
Venue: MCTC Studio (for real this time!)
Die Roll: 14
I don't know what to say. I'm wanting to blame my thoughts on this show on what might be opening night jitters. But more likely it was just bad.
This is the author's own story about the recent adoption of her daughter. It tackled tough topics, but failed to deliver a point of view that would demand being told. Essentially, I was bored. Not only by the material, but by the performance itself.
I'm a little concerned at what I'm about to say. Apparently, the main actress is a theatre prof at Gustavus Adolphus. Two of the minor characters are students there, or recent graduates. The students have surpassed the master. The girls were far better prepared and they were better performers generally. Unfortunately, they were the supporting cast.
I'm not a fan shows that are merely "ME"-moir. And when a playwright puts themselves forth as the main character, I hope that they have the sense to present themselves as interesting. And if they can act that out, then I'm more or less okay. BUT!!! Normally, memoir shows are not dramatically sound, and they are too closely attached to the author to be well-acted. This is the case here.
Beyond that, I can't say anything good, so I'll say nothing more.
RATING: "d4 - Not Worth The Time"
Company: Lisa's Ink
Venue: MCTC Studio (for real this time!)
Die Roll: 14
I don't know what to say. I'm wanting to blame my thoughts on this show on what might be opening night jitters. But more likely it was just bad.
This is the author's own story about the recent adoption of her daughter. It tackled tough topics, but failed to deliver a point of view that would demand being told. Essentially, I was bored. Not only by the material, but by the performance itself.
I'm a little concerned at what I'm about to say. Apparently, the main actress is a theatre prof at Gustavus Adolphus. Two of the minor characters are students there, or recent graduates. The students have surpassed the master. The girls were far better prepared and they were better performers generally. Unfortunately, they were the supporting cast.
I'm not a fan shows that are merely "ME"-moir. And when a playwright puts themselves forth as the main character, I hope that they have the sense to present themselves as interesting. And if they can act that out, then I'm more or less okay. BUT!!! Normally, memoir shows are not dramatically sound, and they are too closely attached to the author to be well-acted. This is the case here.
Beyond that, I can't say anything good, so I'll say nothing more.
RATING: "d4 - Not Worth The Time"
Day 1 -- 7:00 p.m. Time Slot
Show: Blogologue
Company: Hamel Road Theater Project
Venue: Mixed Blood
Die Roll: 2
This is a series of sketches based on real items found on the internet. As one who writes some of the crap on the internet, I was very happy to see this specific artform lampooned.
The two best bits were about cybersex in all its glory (?). In one two misfits who misrepresent themselves get together in real life after they confess all their lies. In the other, a guy who doesn't give a rat's ass is having cybersex (or, rather, avoiding it) by making the experience too true to life for his female partner.
The Star Trek spoof was a lot of fun, too.
Only things holding this show back? Oddly misplaced mysogynist comments during the newscast segment that seem to take away from the humor, and the large number of technical difficulties. But, that's partially excusable because it is the fisrt performance.
There were parts that made me laugh so hard I couldn't breathe, and there were other ones that made me sick to my stomach, quite literally. And yet, that second thing was a good thing.
Clearly I'm getting really tired because I'm over-using the word "thing." I think I'll stop typing now.
Just know that this was a good show.
RATING: "d12 - A Heckuva Lotta Fun"
Company: Hamel Road Theater Project
Venue: Mixed Blood
Die Roll: 2
This is a series of sketches based on real items found on the internet. As one who writes some of the crap on the internet, I was very happy to see this specific artform lampooned.
The two best bits were about cybersex in all its glory (?). In one two misfits who misrepresent themselves get together in real life after they confess all their lies. In the other, a guy who doesn't give a rat's ass is having cybersex (or, rather, avoiding it) by making the experience too true to life for his female partner.
The Star Trek spoof was a lot of fun, too.
Only things holding this show back? Oddly misplaced mysogynist comments during the newscast segment that seem to take away from the humor, and the large number of technical difficulties. But, that's partially excusable because it is the fisrt performance.
There were parts that made me laugh so hard I couldn't breathe, and there were other ones that made me sick to my stomach, quite literally. And yet, that second thing was a good thing.
Clearly I'm getting really tired because I'm over-using the word "thing." I think I'll stop typing now.
Just know that this was a good show.
RATING: "d12 - A Heckuva Lotta Fun"
Day 1 -- 5:30 p.m. Time Slot
Show: The Adventures of Can-Man!
Company: Shoe String Puppet Theater
Venue: MCTC Studio (Sort of)
Die Roll: 9
This play was held outside, which I anticipated to be a difficulty, but it really wasn't. I was confused as to how the whole admission collection thing was going to work out, but it seems that it went smoothly enough. I bought my ticket inside and it was collected outside.
What was the show doing outside? Well, the puppet stage that was built for the show was too big to fit in the space.
I love puppets. Just so you know. And I love the fact that this company made all of their puppets out of found trash and such. Their methods were good, and their puppets were good. And yet I walked away unfulfilled.
Why? Well, normally a storyline is a good thing. This show didn't have one. I was saddened by this.
There were good moments, to be sure, but there was no real conflict, no rising action.
If you want to see proficient puppeteers, go see this show. If you want to see a show that makes sense, or has some semblance of plot, you might consider something else.
Random thing! This is the third show I know of in the Fringe that has a shark in it!
RATING: "d8 - Not Bad, Not Great"
Company: Shoe String Puppet Theater
Venue: MCTC Studio (Sort of)
Die Roll: 9
This play was held outside, which I anticipated to be a difficulty, but it really wasn't. I was confused as to how the whole admission collection thing was going to work out, but it seems that it went smoothly enough. I bought my ticket inside and it was collected outside.
What was the show doing outside? Well, the puppet stage that was built for the show was too big to fit in the space.
I love puppets. Just so you know. And I love the fact that this company made all of their puppets out of found trash and such. Their methods were good, and their puppets were good. And yet I walked away unfulfilled.
Why? Well, normally a storyline is a good thing. This show didn't have one. I was saddened by this.
There were good moments, to be sure, but there was no real conflict, no rising action.
If you want to see proficient puppeteers, go see this show. If you want to see a show that makes sense, or has some semblance of plot, you might consider something else.
Random thing! This is the third show I know of in the Fringe that has a shark in it!
RATING: "d8 - Not Bad, Not Great"
Day 1: The Beginning
For those of you who read my blog last year, you'll remember that at the beginning of each Fringe Festival day I put forth some brief thoughts, and then the day's random bits. The entries thereafter for the rest of the day describe each of the timeslots in which I saw plays (or in some cases, missed seeing plays).
So... It is that time. The first day of the Fringe Festival. The first show is at 4 p.m., and since it is the only show in that Time Slot, I'll be there. Can't avoid it, really. No other options for my die to find. Thereafter the charts do their thing.
Last night was the final Fringe Preview. We got to see a bunch of snippets from the out-of-towners. Of the things we saw last night, I'd like to recommend Pentecostal Wisconsin and Speechless.
I didn't see the last two offerings of the evening, as they were running late, and by then I'd run into Nancy Donoval, who happens to be one of my favorite people on the planet. We went and talked about theatre, her show from last year, our families, and just life in general. Good conversation. I love that woman! Hopefully her boyfriend has no problem with that.
I am going to avoid saying anything bad about the shows from last night. However, I will say that if you're going to continually point out that you're from New York as if it is some pedigree, then put up or shut up. Also, apparently you can have been from MN until after last year's Fringe, move to NY, and come home as an out-of-town artist. That's handy. I think next year I'll claim to be from Spain and be an out-of-towner myself!
My charts are almost done. I'm a little ashamed as they are not as good as they were last year. Far from it, really.
Okay, before the random bits, two quick things. First: At least one of my d20 dice will be appearing in Michael Shaeffer's show, Tantrums, Testicles, and Trojans. That makes me happy. And, there is another show that is all about the gamer sub-culture: THAC0. The title is derived from a gaming term that stands for "To Hit Armor Class 0." It is a term from Advanced Dungeons and Dragons - 2nd edition. That's a game that was replaced by the "d20" version of D&D. For at least 15 years, AD&D-2ed. was THE main gaming system out there, and just from the title, this show holds a special place in my heart. This is the second time that I know of that cast member Duck Washington has played a gaming geek, and that's noteworthy, too. He's good at it. Oh yeah, he really is one, too. TYPE-CASTING!
Okay, time to do something random!
I'm not biking the Fringe today. I don't have time to get a bike ready until tomorrow. I'll do that then.
My daughter had a few lines within a skit that the kids did at the kindergarten graduation thing yesterday. It was very cute, and she did a really good job. She spoke much more clearly than she does around home. Seems to verify my thoughts that she speaks in a modified slang/baby-talk around the house, but is much more verbally advanced elsewhere. I'm wondering if that's an attempted way to manipulate her parents, or what?
Spoon!
Some day I would like to try para-sailing.
Why isn't Erasmus James in training camp yet?
And now some trivia from Stuie's Trivia: "Coca-Cola was originally green." -- That doesn't sound very appetizing at first, but then you have to remember that it also originally contained cocaine, so that probably counteracted that whole gross color thing.
So... It is that time. The first day of the Fringe Festival. The first show is at 4 p.m., and since it is the only show in that Time Slot, I'll be there. Can't avoid it, really. No other options for my die to find. Thereafter the charts do their thing.
Last night was the final Fringe Preview. We got to see a bunch of snippets from the out-of-towners. Of the things we saw last night, I'd like to recommend Pentecostal Wisconsin and Speechless.
I didn't see the last two offerings of the evening, as they were running late, and by then I'd run into Nancy Donoval, who happens to be one of my favorite people on the planet. We went and talked about theatre, her show from last year, our families, and just life in general. Good conversation. I love that woman! Hopefully her boyfriend has no problem with that.
I am going to avoid saying anything bad about the shows from last night. However, I will say that if you're going to continually point out that you're from New York as if it is some pedigree, then put up or shut up. Also, apparently you can have been from MN until after last year's Fringe, move to NY, and come home as an out-of-town artist. That's handy. I think next year I'll claim to be from Spain and be an out-of-towner myself!
My charts are almost done. I'm a little ashamed as they are not as good as they were last year. Far from it, really.
Okay, before the random bits, two quick things. First: At least one of my d20 dice will be appearing in Michael Shaeffer's show, Tantrums, Testicles, and Trojans. That makes me happy. And, there is another show that is all about the gamer sub-culture: THAC0. The title is derived from a gaming term that stands for "To Hit Armor Class 0." It is a term from Advanced Dungeons and Dragons - 2nd edition. That's a game that was replaced by the "d20" version of D&D. For at least 15 years, AD&D-2ed. was THE main gaming system out there, and just from the title, this show holds a special place in my heart. This is the second time that I know of that cast member Duck Washington has played a gaming geek, and that's noteworthy, too. He's good at it. Oh yeah, he really is one, too. TYPE-CASTING!
Okay, time to do something random!
I'm not biking the Fringe today. I don't have time to get a bike ready until tomorrow. I'll do that then. My daughter had a few lines within a skit that the kids did at the kindergarten graduation thing yesterday. It was very cute, and she did a really good job. She spoke much more clearly than she does around home. Seems to verify my thoughts that she speaks in a modified slang/baby-talk around the house, but is much more verbally advanced elsewhere. I'm wondering if that's an attempted way to manipulate her parents, or what? Spoon! Some day I would like to try para-sailing. Why isn't Erasmus James in training camp yet? And now some trivia from Stuie's Trivia: "Coca-Cola was originally green." -- That doesn't sound very appetizing at first, but then you have to remember that it also originally contained cocaine, so that probably counteracted that whole gross color thing.
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