Saturday, September 5, 2009

Opera Glasses and Shear Madness: a Comedic Review

By Jeff Bridges

If you are planning on seeing the comedy play Shear Madness make sure you bring your Opera Glasses. In reviewing this wonderful performance I must first make sure that you are prepared for aching cheeks, and stomach muscles that will be sore for a week. I loved Shear Madness, Never have I laughed so hard in my life!

The play begins in a unisex hair salon; there are many types of people at coming in and out of the salon. We see many stereotypes, we see the dumb blond, homosexual hair dresser (played by John McGivern in the performance I attended.), the police officers, a high class woman, and of course the traditional red hot hunk of a man, which makes John McGivern's character giggle with delight. In this scene we get the first bits of comedy. All of the characters seem to be sharing the most well guarded secrets with the hairdressers; much like as is found in the real world.

One thing that should be explained about Shear Madness is that much of this play is not scripted, but rather is performed in an improvisation. Much of what is discussed in the play; revolve around current events in the city and in the world. At times this improvisation is so funny that the actors themselves cannot contain their laughter, which of course makes the audience laugh harder. To ensure that you catch every slip up you will want to bring your opera glasses.

Shear Madness is very much an interactive play. As you attend, you will find that performers will periodically ask the audience for their opinions about the developing story. Many in attendance will shout out their answers which often vary wildly. This aspect alone will make this play unforgettable in your mind. If find that your seat is in the first few rows, be prepared, as you may find yourself as centerpiece of a joke. Remember, that all jokes are just in good fun.

Aside from the typical chit chat you find in a beauty parlor, Shear Madness' plot turns to a murder mystery. The person who is killed is always the same; it is the owner of the parlor. The owner lived above the parlor prior to being murdered, and you will see that any of the characters potentially could have been the murderer. You will be working and trying to figure out who the murderer is; your opera glasses will help you to not miss any subtle hints.

What makes this comedy play different than any other play is that the guilty murderer is different each time. The characters in the play will talk to the audience and ask them questions. The audience actually votes and chooses who the murderer is. As odd as this may sound, it is really a very clever concept. Some people even see this play more than once and usually see a different ending.

This play is often called the longest running, or second longest running non musical performances. Many critics have given this play wonderful reviews, because of the witty comedy and wonderful performances, which is why of course; this play has been around for so long.

Opera glasses are always a crucial element in attending any performance, but especially this one. If you don't bring your opera glasses, you are sure to miss moments, clues and laughs. Make sure you have a pair in hand before you walk out the door to go.

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