		Inside Private Lives
		`SF FRINGE 2009 AUDIENCE REVIEWS`
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`CLICK TO SEE RECENT AUDIENCE REVIEWS` CLICK ON PLAY FOR REVIEWS OF THAT PLAY 22 Minutes Remaining A (Bearded) Lady BLESSING HER HEART Break-Upocalypse Carnival Of Chaos: "Survival Tips For The Reckless" Cemetery Golf Cockroach De Rerum Natura; Or, Love The One You Whip Eat, Pray, Laugh! Fists of Funny FOOL FOR A CLIENT The Fox The Frank Diary of Anne The Godling Hell, The Musical I Prefer Fur Inside Private Lives J.Lo.Hew JESUS IN MONTANA: Adventures in a Doomsday Cult Knitting LandEscape Legs and All Marriage: a queer institution MISSING: fugue #9: wear a warm coat No Ordinary Nut Open Season, A Queer Performance Spectacular Play 4 Play Poste Restante PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT: Comedy and Justice for All Pulp Scripture Recess Searching for the Voice of the Third Show No Show Spider Baby the musical Suicide Me! The Surprise The Tao of Everest Tater Stew tempestuous(ness) or HIStory is Told by the Victors The Texas Chainsaw Musical! Theatre of the Battle Ticonderoga The Unbearable Lightness of Raya		Play: Inside Private LIves Reviewer: Catherine 5 Stars This show was wonderful! Quite hilarious! Prepare to be shocked, awed, and participate. these guys did an excellent job not only portraying the various characters but also being able to handle any sort of questions the audience threw at them. Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Michele Turpin 5 Stars Being part of the scene in an interactive play is unmatched in my experience at a small live play. I loved it! And, I loved it even more on the second night I saw it, because these actors really transformed themselves into the characters in each performance uniquely!! Thank you Fringe Festival! Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Matt 5 Stars Today is the last day of the Fringe and I want to applaud the festival for featuring this show. Fun, smart, different. This is the kind of show I come to the Fringe to see. Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Rana 4 Stars Very interesting characters and great cast! I am sending this review post-fringe because at the fringe party I was asked by Bettie Page and her friends, specifically "what could make this show better?" I think the whole introduction can be cut. The actors and writing is good enough that the audience understands the concept from the first character performance. There is no need to describe this to us before performing it. Just perform it. I think that will be more fun for the audience and we won't be so intent on trying to "figure out" more from the "game". Don't tell us its a game, that just makes us competitive! Also, I liked another person's suggestion that the characters reveal more deeper and personal feelings. We really do want to know more about them before granting their request. I know some of the questions that the audience asks seem out of left field, but since many are what people are normally curious about from the characters, you could prepare the "script" such that you volunteer the intimate details before we ask. As you reveal more about the character we might be more inclined to grant the request.. or not! Just a few ideas. Again, great work! Thank you :) Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Marcus 5 Stars I normally don't post a review after seeing a show. I figure everyone has an opinion. This time I'm making an exception and sharing mine. This show impresses. It's originality and provocative concept clearly makes it a show not to miss. Also impressive is the risk element between the actors and the audience. I'll venture to say it's even thrilling to be in the audience at this show. The characters, portraying real people, wanted something very specific from us, the audience. We got to debate them on their desire or need, clearly challenging us to listen and engage intelligently. The beauty of this show is it doesn't matter if they get what they want or not, to me it is about the truthfulness of the moment. The characters reacted with raw emotion to what they received from us. Their struggle to fight for what they believed was exhilerating. The laughs, and there were many, an added bonus. I came to this show, because it's been heralded by reviewers in New York and Los Angeles, but I am writing this review because I saw it's merits for myself. This show is for those that are looking for something more than being just a fly on the wall. This show stimulated me to write a review - that's something. Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Dmitri 3 Stars The night I attended the audience "met" Brownie Wise, Christine Jorgenson, Leona Helmsly, and Glenn Gould. Gould sparked my interest the most by far, but this portrayal was the least satisfying. I wonder if the performer (writer?) really knew anything much about the pianist. Play: Inside Personal Lives Reviewer: jes'fine 3 Stars The problem with shows based heavily on audience participation is that lots of factors have to fall into place. This is an obviously talented cast , but I'm not sure if I needed more booze in me or the audience needed more or perhaps less in them , but this felt strained to me and I left disappointed. I'm really open that others were genuinely having more fun than I was , or that other nights could be more successful since the lives they do keep changing as do the audiences , so it's always a different show. Or maybe just not my cup of tea....or gin ...or opium. Play: Inside Personal Lives Reviewer: Michael 4 Stars Excellent acting and good stories. The only problem with the format, which has audience participation. Our audience was rowdy and uncooperative, which made it hardd for the actors to stay on task. Well worth seeing, though, for the experience Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: JB 5 Stars This show from LA (!) is a "Must See" - four fabulously talented femmes performed when I saw the show, (characters included: Amy Semple, and the June Playboy Centerfold, among others) but here's a scoop: there's a David Koresh character waiting in the wings for the Wednesday performance, plus Wallis Simpson @ Buckingham Palace!) Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Mike 5 Stars A unique and fun show. Each actor portrays an interesting historical figure, and presents the audience with a question that they are asked to adjudicate. Audience participation is key, and the actors combine both traditional acting with improvisational skills, and do so very well. We get a brief peek into the lives of these historical figures. Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: John Wilkinson 5 Stars We were fascinated by this show. We're still talking about it today. The more we think about the characters we met, the more we realize that their stories parallel similar ethical debates that still continue today. There's lots of humor and it's fun for the audience, I agree. But I was intrigued by the invitation to engage with these "pop culture figures" and their dilemmas. Each was revealing and personal. This show did three things very well: 1. Original theater concept (yes, smart, I think someone said) 2. Entertaining 3. Thought provoking I got my money's worth. Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Craig Kensek 4 Stars Historical (as opposed to hysterical) Participatory Improv - 4 stars (barely) Inside Private Lives consists of 4 fifteen minute pieces. Each features a single “historical” character such as the Queen of Tupperware or a movie producer fired for snorting many times too often, the audience (and maybe a audience few plants). The quality of the pieces varied on the creativity of the audience and the ability of the actor to run with whatever was said. Be prepared to participate from your chair, should you go. Or, if you’re up for it, this is your opportunity for 20 seconds or more of fame. The set of 4 characters varies by night, so if you enjoy this sort of theatre, you can attend multiple times. Being funny on your feet without the luxury without being able to relay on memorizing a 10 minute bit is quite a skill. The performers pull it off well. Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Ellen 5 Stars I've read a lot of the reviews and agree with all RAVES. This show is unique and so smart. My suggestion: go early and grab a seat near the front. Better yet, go with a group of friends (and have some of your friends sit in front of you). I don't want to give too much of the show away, but I'm glad I didn't miss this one. Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Ben 5 Stars This is a very interesting show. It is by far in my estimation a stand out choice. The cast of characters were all so different. Unlike reading an article in a newspaper, or watching an interview on TV, I was asking the questions. I can only imagine the depth of knowledge these actors have in preparing for their roles. I would have liked more time with each of the characters. The whole thing was fascinating. Bravo. Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Helen 3 Stars Gosh I wish I'd had a few drinks before seeing this show! The audience participation was uncomfortable in the half-full room on Monday night and the audience didn't really get into the show until midway through the second character. Once we all began to play along the show became much more fun--have a few drinks first and be prepared to be part of the show! Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Rosie I don't quite understand the desired effect of this show. The performances were very strong, but I wondered what we were supposed to take away from their various diatribes. I thought the representation of these actual people was funny but pretty shallow, giving us no new insight into their lives, or the reason behind the choices they made. Brownie Wise, for example, is far more complex and interesting an individual than cupcake tupperware barbie doll girl. Though I thought the actress portraying Brownie Wise was quite good, I wished there was more depth to the whole show. We poke at stereotypes all the time on our own because often that's all we have, it is the job of the artist to give us some new perspective or insight. It is not enough to simply pick something controversial, there has to be a reason behind it and that reason wasn't clear to me watching this show. Perhaps there just wasn't enough time to get the audience asking tough questions of the characters..? But even s! till, the jokes were all in how they avoided the tough questions which at best kept us laughing, but at worst put us closer to the stereotypes of these people than actually empathizing with them, or understanding anything new about them. It would be far more compelling if the arguments for what they did and believed in were better, making it much harder a task for the audience to write them off as just a pile of quirks. Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Gail Jean 5 Stars Brilliant! Exciting, hilarious and insightful on top of it all Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Hilary Barner 5 Stars Truly an unusual, exceptional and entertaining theater experience. You find yourself in a room with a historic figure hearing them discuss their moment of fame or infamy and can argue with or question them on their actions. Characters are well researched by the actors and remain in character as they respond to audience participation. We have been 4 times and it is different each time. You won't be disappointed!! Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: George and Carolyn Seitz 5 Stars This play is first rate. A diverse set of historical figures that have been so well studied, the actors can handle whatever the audience asks them. A great interactive evening.! Play: inside private lives Reviewer: SA2000 4 Stars This is a fun show especially for people who are interested in history and/or improv and/or audience participation. Some acts are screamingly hilarious, others are more thought provoking. Not every actor gives a lot of information at the top of their time on stage, so ideally if you know what historical characters will be on for the evening, do a quick wikipedia search to get some info ahead of time to maximize the experience. Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Jeff 5 Stars I saw this in Los Angeles ahwile back and it's terrific fun! You can confront the characters during the performance and listen to them defend often indefensible positions. You don't have to know the characters' histories, it's explained to you in context. The actors are very quick on their feet and know how to work the crowd. Shy audience members would do well to avoid sitting in front! Play: Private Lives Reviewer: Ted Bosley 5 Stars This is a really wonderful concept, bringing to life famous and infamous figures in an interactive way. Finally, an audience gets to find out why by asking the questions themselves! A fun evening all around. Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Chrissy Feldman 5 Stars Very Funny Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Deb Littell 5 Stars I have seen this play several times in Los Angeles and every time it's different. It's one of those shows you can actually see multiple times as they always have new characters. The concept of introducing historical figures with this kind of diologue is intriguing. If you've never heard of the person, it inspires you to know more, and if you are familiar with the character, you can ask any question you want. Apparently the actors have studied and researched their personas intensely and it's impressive how much they know. It's a fun night and absolutely worth checking out. Play: INSIDE PRIVATE LIVES Reviewer: Desiree Sweet 5 Stars Such a fun intereactive play with some of the greatest actors I've seen yet Play: INSIDE PRIVATE LIVES Reviewer: Bonnie L. Franklin 5 Stars The most creative play I've seen to date. The characters are not shy about coming into the audience and provoking interaction. It's funny as hell one minute and jaw-dropping the next. Try to catch Marge Schott and John Dillinger! Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Donna Hadjikhanu 5 Stars I have seen the show twice and it is always a completely new and different show, shocking, fun and so creative. All the actors are so talented, amazingly able to become the charaters they play on stage. A real MUST SEE!! Play: INSIDE PRIVATE LIVES Reviewer: Lara Klingman 5 Stars A fun-filled evening full of laughter and unexpected events Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Michael S. 5 Stars "Inside Private Lives" is an inventive show, created and performed by an extremely talented cast. It's a very entertaining, completely unique theatrical experience Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Susan Ziwot 5 Stars Inside Private Lives is an exhilarating theatre experience unlike anything you have seen before! It will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end as the characters come to life and literally bring you into their stories. Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Signe Kiesel 5 Stars One of the most hilarious and entertaining shows I've seen in my 15 years of living in LA. Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Alan House 5 Stars http://www.styleandtrendreport.com/category/entertainment/theater/ Play: Inside Privite Lives Reviewer: heather hegeman 5 Stars Unique Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Kerry Nadal 5 Stars It's the most original night of theatre that I've been to in years. If Marge Schott is featured that night you are in for a real treat!! Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Sue Murphy 5 Stars Saw this show in NYC and found it thought- provoking AND funny, a rare combination. Especially loved the Wallace Simpson character. I recommend it! Play: inside private lives Reviewer: howard 5 Stars wonderfully creative. well executed. meamingful subject matter. very humorous. from the heart Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Sue Smith 5 Stars I saw the show in NY City It was very enjoyable! What a great concept. Sheila Wolf was the best part of the show! Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Erika Demas 5 Stars This is a fantastic interactive experience. The cast is amazing and my group had such a great time when we saw it in LA. If you are looking for a fun, energetic night, I highly recommend this show! Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Anna Merritt 5 Stars Awesome! Amazing! Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: stephanie flagg 5 Stars Brilliant Show! Could and Should be seen many times!! Original and Clever!!! Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Angela Mills 5 Stars Stunning portrayals of historic figures you've always wanted to know "in a different way." I saw this production off broadway and I LOVED IT!!! Excellent cast and terrific staging made for an entertaining and thought-provoking evening of stellar theatre. Play: Inside Private Lives Reviewer: Betsy Ling 5 Stars Lots of laughs in this ingenious play. The actors, who become characters from history, are sharp and quick in responding to the audience, who are given a part to play for each of the 6 performers. The performances change with the audience. I've seen the show twice. Hope to see it one more time before the run ends Play: inside private lives Reviewer: cheryl 5 Stars Wonderful & hilarious! I can see this show again and again!