Written by: David Cerda. At: The Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division. Phone: 800-838-3006; $15-$28. Runs through: July 3
The gang from Hell in a Handbag circles back in time to bring a prehistoric musical to life with Trogg!
This production is loosely based on the Joan Crawford 1970 horror movie Trog. Donning his pantsuit and heals David Cerda leads the cast of beach loving teens while they find a caveman in their midst. Dancing in the sand can be fun but when the neanderthal is discovered and unleashed on the town science begins to clash with the population.
Cerda's deadpan Joan as Dr. Joan Cannon really takes the cake and has several bust out loud laughing moments. Her flash card therapy has mixed results on the pet troglodyte, lucky for the civilians music takes over to calm down the furry creature. Chad Ramsey as Trogg has an energy that is hoot to watch. Ed Jones as Carol Ann is a standout as usual having appeared in several of the Handbag's shows. The crowd loved Alex Grelle as Peanut who adds a lot to role that could have been a throwaway. Dig in to the atheist chili as this camp will make you pray for more. The music is fun and matches the beach theme with a style Frankie Avalon could appreciate.
"Barbara, please" don't stop wearing that wig furnished by BC Kalz, like many of the outlandish hair stylings this could win an award on its own. The family dynamics of characters is great fun to watch. The strong drive that Joan resonates with her test tubes reminds everyone of why Mommie Dearest is an over the top favorite. So if you are fan of drive-in movies and campy classics this is the play you have been craving. If not, somehow I don't think Joan will mind if you stay at home and scrub your floor.
This was Crawford's last big-screen appearance but will definitely not be the last for this comedy crew. If you have not checked out The Joans make plans to this summer.
Remember: No flash photography at the show or "Trogg will become enraged."