"The Mystery of Irma Vep" Spoofs Melodrama
If you're into slapdash comedy and have any familiarity with classic horror shows or Gothic mysteries, this is the place to be. The loosely constructed plot begins with the realization that tonight’s acting company has only two actors remaining to portray the many characters in the melodrama. Oh dear! Naturally a madcap switching of roles has to occur.
Two capable actors, Craig A. Miller of Santa Rosa and Ryan Schaback of Wisconsin, fill the richly decorated stage with more than 30 changes of costumes and voices. They play up the zaniness with their voices and mannerisms, including a proper lord and lady, hungry vampire, Egyptian princess, droll servant, and a strange portrait. Since there are only two actors zooming on and off the stage, the audience watches carefully to see if either one slips up. They don’t. It’s amazing to see how quickly these skilled actors can change characters, and how the clever setting allows this. Kudos go to Director Marty Pistone for recruiting these two guys whose timing and talent keep us laughing. Joining the two actors at the side of the stage is a very capable Janis Wilson, providing the amusing keyboards and old-time organ background.
It’s fun, it’s silly, it’s colorful, and it’s campy entertainment. The comfortable G. K. Hardt Theatre at the Sixth Street Playhouse, 52 West 6th Street, Santa Rosa (free parking lot) features shows on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays with Sunday matinees through June 26. Tickets are $32 to $15 at www.6thstreetplayhouse.com or (707) 523-4185. Suitable for older children.