CHARISMATIC MEGAFAUNA

By Quiconque

Plug: Famous Ghost Monologues

Last night I braved torrential rain and the prospect of another devastating flood to see a reading of The Famous Ghost Monologues. Before the show even began, I was treated to the following highlights: Sars walking down the street in a fetching little black ensemble, complete with strappy heels and a large white plastic garbage bag on her head (Glam-R-Us!); four elderly folks trying to navigate the river between their taxicab and the sidewalk; a yellow chunk falling off said cab when the aforementioned elderly people opened the door; and a tourist in flip-flops wiping out dramatically on the rain-soaked marble floor of the lobby (but for the glass door, she would have shot right down the hallway). These alone were worth the price of admission. (Five dollars, what a bargain. What a bargain for me!)

Chronically early, I helped set up the space and waited in the lobby, listening to a troupe across the hall perform a lively rendition of "Roll Out the Barrel." I wish I'd brought a book, or more than a tiny notepad to write on. La Belle H�l�ne and Super Fudge were at the Incubus show at MSG. I bet they didn't help the band carry in wet music stands. Yeah, I am that cool. Oh Jesus, have I become a groupie?

Speaking of Jesus, there's a Christian bookstore next door. I was tempted to go in and cause some mischief, but the entrance was blocked by tourists having a Kodak Moment. "See Mildred, there are Christians in New York City. It's not completely Gomorrah!"

My verdict: highly recommended. The performances were good. The actors are talented, but the real star is the writing--smart, funny and wistful. The full stage show goes up August 5. Get your tickets ASAP.

LINKS

DIARYRINGS

READING: Waiting by Ha Jin

WATCHING: Some lame-o sci-fi drama about mutants on the WB