NOW LEASING

I met the artist at the art walk in DTLA a couple of nights before the show, and based on her gumption of wearing such an absurd outfit while bravely inviting people to her show, I decided to check it out. I'm usually bored by people that attempt to channel their narcissism into performance art, until a true master like Lea comes along and shows the way. Her many skills contribute to the narrative arc, woven into the piece like a bower bird weaves tinsel into its nest: it catches the light draws you to her. Once she's got your attention, she reveals the life of a young dancer, and passionately conveys the triumphs and tribulations along the way. If you can catch her show during her all too brief sojourn in LA, consider yourself one ... full review

NOW LEASING is a special kind of thing. But let me digress: G. S. Morales — Editor - "latheatercritic.com" "At sixteen years old, I produced and directed my first theatrical presentation — merging my passion for writing and knowledge as a black belt in kung fu into a successful martial art theatre extravaganza. Since then I have bled, sweated, and cried my way through every role in the theater world from the costume and welding shops, to center stage and the director's chair." So, that's the grossly self-indulgent pap of a bio from the "editor" of "latheatercritic.com". Let's see if we can parry this sad-sack black belt attempt at "welding" his or her waste of breath to this lovely show. Absolutely run-of-the-mill on its own term... full review

Lea McGowan surprises and uplifts at every turn. From the start I did not know what to expect next. Her stories brought out many emotions. Lea's energy and humor are contagious. Will be recomeding this show.... full review

Now Leasing succeeds and entertains at so many levels, parlaying the many faceted skills of writer/performer Lea McGowan into a inspiring, passionate story of one artist's journey towards her dreams. Its thoroughly refreshing to see so much emotion and narrative expressed through dance and physicality when so much theatre today is overly wordy and ultimately undistinguished. Lea is truly mesmerizing as she moves from one episode to the next, even making costume changes into expressive moments, continually surprising as she plays different aspects of her persona. She is at once brave and absurd, powerful and vulnerable, funny and touching; pirouetting her way right into audiences heart. One highlight that must be mentioned: she does a stu... full review

One of the best Fringe shows ever. Lea takes us on a journey of adventure into a world most people imagine to be supernatural, a world where humans can fly and dance with the grace and speed of superheroes and faerie folk. From kung-fu theatre to cg-madness big screen sci-fi, we are being brainwashed to believe that people can't use their own bodies to really move. Lea shows us how people, real people, can turn dreams into reality. Sure, some may call her piece a bit disorganized, but if you've ever wondered what a person can do with the power of a physical body, watch the show and become entranced. ... full review