The Funeral Crasher

Stacy Mayer’s one-woman show is a collection of stories about death and funerals. An interesting idea, however it is underdeveloped.

After a traumatic car accident, it seems she’s got a penchant for death. Drawn to dark and twisty humor she begins interviewing people about their experiences at funerals. One person whom she draws inspiration from is a Buddhist comic who philosophizes about death.

The main thing that is lacking from this show is the why-factor. Why are these stories being told? Eventually Mayer reveals that all these interviews have still not prepared her for death. A story arch concept that is never fully realized. Also, the title of the play is misleading. Funeral crasher implies that she “crashes” funerals – i.e. showing up to random funerals uninvited. Now that would be a funny story.

Mayer’s heart is in the right place. As herself she is lovely and quirky and I adore her simple “I’m just talking to you” vibe, but her character work needs a lot of improvement. That’s where strong direction would have helped. Again, the show is an interesting idea, but that’s all it is. If it’s ever going to become a show worth crashing, it’s going to need a lot more work.

Re-posted from LA Theatre Review: http://www.latheatrereview.com/2010/06/23/fringe-day-seven-wednesday-june-23/