Escape Reality November 9, 2008

dash.watkins

I saw "Escape Realty" with a couple of friends last night, and it's wonderful. From first-rate close-up to great stand-up routines to some terrific twists on some classic illusions (the levitation of the "patient" in the psychiatrist's office in the first act, done close to the foot of the stage, was particularly impressive), it's unlike any full-evening show I've seen. There were far too many highlights for me to touch upon without making this post overly long, but suffice it to say that the show's unique blend of sketch comedy, storytelling and mind-boggling magic had the house laughing and cheering almost from the start.

The Stars of the show are exceptionally warm and personable performers, and that was particularly evident during last night's show. A large part of the audience was made up of kids and young adults who are part of the Special Olympics team, and the way the two of them rolled with the punches and handled their enthusiasm (always with kindness) while keeping the show moving for the rest of us was a text-book lesson in professionalism and class.
The venue is warm and intimate, and both the theater and the show have a disarmingly retro counterculture vibe. Way cool!

If you've not seen this show I strongly encourage you to get yourself to the Magicopolis theater in Santa Monica and do so. And if you've already seen "Escape Reality" (as was true for many in last night's audience), you might want to see it again.