Terror on The High Seas

I didn't know what to expect other than an entertaining evening. Wow, did I get more than what I bargained for! Les's humor is painfully precise -- the characters and situations he creates in his stories are so realistic, yet so wry at the same time. SEE THIS SHOW! ... full review

It's a very sweet show that is exactly what he promises it to be - a tale of his Alaska adventure with family. ... full review

Watching Les on stage is always a treat! He is so present, so honest, so open about his life experience. It's just him up there being him. I find that powerful. His characters are hilarious & real. His story-telling pulls you in & takes you along for the ride. Les inspires me to take a leap into my own Solo Show that I've been cultivating in my mind for years. So, thanks for that, Les.... full review

Once the show starts you are in for an amazing ride with Les's high energy and cleverly crafted storytelling! ... full review

Overall, a fantastic example of long form storytelling, enjoyable from start to finish.... full review

There has been a stigma towards solo performances that lead people to roll their eyes and sigh, and I suppose I understand why some people may feel like that. However, do not - DO NOT - let those reserved feelings prevent you from seeing this show. Kurkendaal is a master weaver in storytelling, the moment Kurkendaal enters the stage his infectious buoyant attitude and pep immediately draws you into the story. This is the sort of charming comic storytelling that should be featured on This American Life. In addition to that, Kurkendaal displays perfect examples of microaggressions that older ignorant white audiences would perhaps fully understand. The direction of the play utilizes certain devices that would put the audience in Kurkendaal's sh... full review

I'm too busy to expand on my love of it.... full review

Great engagement with the audience. Les's joy is palpable and immediately infuses his audience and we are on his journey with him. I hate the use of the word "journey " in Solo Shows but LES TAKES A JOURNEY! A real one...it's just a cruise....but it's a cruise with his Republican In-Laws. Whoa. It's a ride. He might have a hard time with them personally but he DOES NOT have a problem with them as an actor....he portrays them honestly and humorously and dare I say it....lovingly. This is the payoff. This creates tension between his character(himself) but the importance he puts on these characters is what makes for great writing and acting. He handles themes of racism, politics and coping without pushing or hitting you over the head. Great w... full review

This play was hilarious from start to finish as it dealt with the dynamics of family relations. It is really about the strength of character of one person and how he, through his creative forbearance, enables a change in an otherwise very conservative situation. Very energetically portrayed as Les takes us through his uncomfortable situations, one after another, until finally the climax "Psycho" theme music, shows his self control as he calms and reclaimed himself. Very effective! We walk with Les as he describes his escapes from an otherwise unbearable family situations and then finds himself surrounded by similar escapee's, finally finding solitude in the natural beauty of Alaska. Very good job, well acted characters, funny and meaningf... full review

Les is a master of the personal story! He brings you into his confidence early on, making you feel as if you are lucky enough to hear his full account of this adventure. The writing was clever and smart, but his performance was so natural you forget it isn't impromptu. By the end of the show I too found myself really missing Alaska! I can't wait to hear the next installment. ... full review