Gluttony – The Bally, Sun Feb 16
Battling noise from the Fringe Club, two puppets and their six handlers produced an unforgettable and unique show. The strange leather men (though Boris may be an anthropomorphic dog) are controlled in plain sight by three humans each—humans that the puppets are completely aware of. Rather than being distracting, the puppeteers’ presence only enhances the magic in this utterly convincing show. A poker game, an origin story and “one plot point” direct the narrative of the show, but the masterful improvisation and audience engagement keeps the show alive. You will be amazed how extraordinarily expressive the puppets’ smooth leather heads are, despite having no facial features. A rare, sparkling performance, this is a show that could quite easily be seen night after night. Starring two foul-mouthed, charming and ultimately heartbreaking little gentlemen, Boris & Sergey’s Vaudevillian Adventure is full of soul, with one for sale. Rating: ***** Boris & Sergey’s Vaudevillian Adventure continues at Gluttony – The Bally until Saturday, March 15. *This review also appears on Rip It Up