Ceremony

Full disclosure here: I've known Michael Kass for some years, so a gush from me is certainly biased. That said, if I didn't thoroughly enjoy his piece I just wouldn't have written a review. 'Pure' storytelling (just actors on a stage, or folks around a campfire) is probably my favorite form of theatre to see, but it's also the most demanding. Like Chekhov or Shakespeare, if the story is executed with anything less than deft skill the audience will be bored and/or confused, or even actively uncomfortable. But when executed properly, a solo piece (or Chekhov, etc) can open up something in an audience's heart and imagination, and can reaffirm the struggle that so many actors out here face: 'This is why I do it!'. Put more simply, the s... full review

This is edge-of-seat storytelling, captivating from beginning to end. As a writer, Kass has crafted a story that weaves past and present seamlessly - as a performer he dives in with bared teeth, ripping himself open and allowing us to witness a raw, genuine spiritual transformation. The result is very moving indeed. ... full review

One person shows...well...you never know. But Michael Kass wasn't trying to be anyone but himself. He was vulnerable and funny and put everything out there for us to see. What started as something we could all relate to - feeling lost, losing love - became something fascinating and other worldly and incredibly intriguing. But we could still relate. We could still follow Michael on his journey and feel like we were a part of it....and maybe feel like we'd like to take a leap of faith like that, too. I loved it from beginning to end.... full review

What can I say that hasn't already been said? Michael Kass gives a great performance as he shares his journey. The opening and ending of the show are perfectly connected, and really immerse the audience in the show. I loved the clever use of props to tell the story. The bright colored buckets were an interesting choice, and perfectly illustrates how one can do so much with so little. (Very Fringe-y!) A wonderful story. Highly Recommended.... full review

Ceremony is easily one of the best in the Fringe. I'm glad I got a chance to see it during its run. The story and performance were both wonderful and engaging. Terrific!... full review

"Ceremony" is a live theater experience like no other. Rarely have I felt so completely transported to another place, living in the moment, right there with the performer. How does Michael Kass do it? Partly, it's director Diana Wyenn's economical, sparse staging. It's also Martin Carrillo's sound design, which subtly but vividly bring to life the aural environment of a Peruvian shamanic village. But mostly, it's Michael himself - his ability to bring the audience in with a natural ease and familiarity that feels unforced and totally authentic. And once he brings you in, Michael takes you on a journey that's deeply personal, frequently hilarious, nakedly truthful, and ultimately revelatory. I'm ready to go back for more, and I can't wait to ... full review

Great show! Definitely check this one out. It's funny but has a lot of heart and is well-performed start to finish. ... full review