Scalpel! Makes the Cut

Posted by: thequeerist

The skinny: Nefarious plastic surgeon plans to take over the world with his army of femmebot Stepford Wives.

Why it’s fabulous: Drag queens and Bunraku puppeteering.

Just the facts, Ma’am: Brava Theater San Francisco, CA, thru April 17, 2010, $20-35.

From the sharply executed choreography of the opening number to the witty lines of the final scenes, the energy of the Scalpel! cast is unflagging and infectious. And considering that injuries resulted in a considerable reworking of the cast since opening night, it’s all the more impressive. Leanne Borghesi in particular does a standout job as the maid Martha (she was originally cast as the reporter Kitty Kelly Brown). But the secret star of the show is Emily McGowan as the ancient, tottering Fritzy. With deadpan delivery and epic comic timing, McGowan owns the stage with her brilliantly feeble stiffness.

In the second act, the Bunraku comes into full play, with puppeteers assisting in the wonderfully choreographed fight scenes. No details here;  you’ll have to see it – and enjoy it – for yourself. But the puppeteers make possible some of the best (of the many) pop culture references in the show.

Designers: Scenic Designer – Matt McAdon; Costume Designer – Abra Berman; Choreographer – Tina Banchero; Fight Choreographer – Dave Maier; Light Designer – Cathie Anderson; Sound Designer – Sound Productions.

Cast members: David Bicha, Leanne Borghesi, Laurie Bushman, Deena Davenport, Juan De La Rosa, Mike Finn, Marilynn Fowler, Arturo Galster, Cindy Goldfield, Jordan L’Moore, Emily McGowan, Sarah Moore and Katie Rubin.

Band members: Peter Fogel, Peggy L’eggs, Christian Matthews, Jeff Mitchell and Tim Perdue.

Puppeteers: Joe Cassserly, Karla Hargrave, Thomas John, Todd Young and Phillip Sebastian.

Posted in performance, queer, theater