1812 Productions present The Search For Signs Of Intelligent Life In The Universe–enjoy the multi talents of Jennifer Childs

Theater: 1812 Productions
Show Title: The Search For Signs Of Intelligent Life In The Universe
Opened: September 26, 2007
Seen: October 2, 2007
Reviewer: Arnie Finkel
Submitted: October 3, 2007

The Philadelphia theater scene is blessed with a multitude of spectacular talents.  One of the shining stars of this firmament is Jennifer Childs.  There are not many actors who can hold an audience in the palm of their hand for over two hours in a one woman show.

Jane Wagner wrote The Search For Signs Of Intelligent Life In The Universe for Lilly Tomlin.  The show is a multi character tour-de-force for a single actor.  The demands on the technique and verebal abilities are astounding.

Jennifer Childs is a wonder.  She portrays, by my count, 16 different parts ranging in age from 15 to 80.  On a minimal set with no costume changes or props, Ms. Childs kept the sold out audience at the Walnut Street Independence Studio on 3 howling with laughter.  She is able to wring all the humor possible out of the script.  Her pantomime is right on.  She creates people with vocal and body changes, sometimes in the middle of a sentence.  And each one is a recognizable human being.

The plot (if there is one)  concerns a half crazy bag lady, Trudy, who is trying to explain human thought and intelligence to extra-terrestrials that she alone can see.  She tries to explain the difference between a can of Campbell's soup and Andy Warhol's painting of the same soup.  She gives them the experience of goose bumps, and so on.  She channels all the other characters for the actor to portray.  In the hands of a lesser talent, this could be a painful experience.  Ms  Childs makes it a theatrical experience to be savored.

The set, a tri-level tri-color affair with a bench down right, a chair up right and a settee up left, was designed by Matt Saunders.  All the other scenery was created by the ingenious use of sound effects.  The timing and exactness of the sound was incredible.  Sound design by Matt Vanenzuela added just what was needed.

Director Mary Carpenter kept the show humming along at a comfortable pace.  I can only hope that she and Jennifer Childs will combine again soon.

Since the play is from the 1980's the program provides a glossary of terms used in the dialogue that may not be familiar to younger playgoers.  The director's notes from Ms. Carpenter is a must read.

Just a quick note about the Independence Theater space,  I find the folding chairs unususally uncomfortable, especially for any performance of two hours or more.

This is the first show of 1812's 11th season.  Ms Childs says she wants to add joy to our lives.  She certainly has for me.  Go get your share.  The Search For…plays until October 28th.