1812 PRODUCTIONS gives the gift of laughter in THIS IS THE WEEK THAT IS

Theater Name: 1812 Productions
Show Name: This Is The Week That Is
Reviewer: Arnie Finkel
Opening Night: November 30, 2007
Seen: December 14, 2007
Submitted: December 15, 2007

Dear Reader—Are you dismayed by the cost of gas today? Are you afraid of the ice and snow coming? Are you having trouble deciding which presidential candidate you dislike the most? Is that your trouble buddy? Well—do not despair. What you need is a dose of holiday laughter. Run, do not walk, to the Adrienne Theater to see the 1812 production of THIS IS THE WEEK THAT IS: MORE POLITICAL HUMOR FOR THE HOLIDAY

You will see the multi-talented Tony Braithwaite impersonate past presidents giving advice to George W., and reading the up to date news with a funny slant (including a quip about Mayor Nutter’s future cat). There will be the ever dependable Scott Greer describing the building of the George W. Bush library, and comparing candidates to cheese. Steven Wright will delight you as Barack, Mayor Nutter, and Condi Rice.

You will revel in the musicianship of Dave Jadico, and his right on impression of Woody Allen. Mary Carpenter will entertain you as Hillary, Barbara S., and will sing an insightful “Let Me Be Clear” (Lyrics by Jennifer Childs-Music by Eric Ebbenga)

I missed the actual presence of Jen Childs. She did, however, appear in several video clips in which she was cleverly able to include the pre-curtain speech about cell phones etc. while interviewing several local politicians. She even manages to interview herself (and ask for donations for 1812).

As usual, this Holiday show was written by the cast just before it was performed and so was as up to date as possible. The production was conceived and directed by Jennifer Childs. She never disappoints me.

The musical direction by Eric Ebbenga was exactly right. The set by Dave Jadico (is there no end to his talents), lighting by Stephen Keever and Video & Sound Design by Jorge Cousineau all added to the excellence of the evening.

I have to comment on several parts of the show. The running gag of W.’s phone call to Iraq, the folk and protest song segment, and the improv handling of the audience participation were all splendid.

Special emphasis is due the homage to the recreation Burr Tillstrom’s “hand ballet” called “The Berlin Wall”. Equally impressive was the singing of all the cast. I’m, personally, grateful to hear some vintage Tom Lehrer.

So—if you want to laugh make your way to THAT IS THE WEEK THAT IS. It closes January 13, 2008 and is, justifiably, selling out quickly.