Townsperson #3
Reviewed by Betsy Dee
There's no vibe like this vibe: Pure syncopated hilarity.
Ever contemplated what's going on with those thousands of Broadway hopefuls? You know, those who do the singing, dancing and moving of furniture on and offstage; those talented, hard-working performers who hold giant musical productions together with pure energy and devotion, even knowing they'll probably never be noticed?
Fear not: Izad Etemadi has.
Set in a fictionalized version of a fictional tale of a kingdom freezing over (Elsa? Is that you?) this witty, fast-paced two-hander is every bit as smart and funny as the likes of Spamalot and Book of Mormon.
With impeccable comedic and musical timing, the duo of Mr. Etemadi and Julia Pulo bring us both backstage and onstage in their love affair with musical theatre and each other (maybe? Okay, just friends).
The character of Townsperson #3 (Etemadi) hilariously captures the essence of an unfulfilled musical theatre devotee (his basket provides endless metaphors). And Julia Pulo's Townsperson #7—do they ever get actual names, you wonder?—is a delightful counterpoint; with her physical comedy and fabulous straight-person timing, she more than holds her own alongside Mr. Etemadi's energetic aura.
You don't have to be a Broadway musical buff to love Townsperson #3—but you'll feel like one, with every instrumental lead-in and complete re-casting of the lyrics that made shows like Annie, The Lion King and Sweeny Todd famous. Every moment features rich and rewarding layers: From the overture to the final curtain call, you'll find yourself laughing and then catching your breath in case you miss something.
Performance Details
Age Suitability: Parental Guidance (ages 13+)
Warnings: Coarse Language
Venue: Theatre Aquarius Studio
Genre: Theatre—Comedy
Playwright & Director
Izad Etemadi
Assistant Director
Marco DeLuca
Cast
Izad Etemadi and Julia Pulo
