The Devil and Billy Markham

A fantastic second production from the Zenith Ensemble Theatre group and Actor/Director Aaron Lyons. Overall, the choice to not just produce, but to tackle Shel Silverstein's 'The Devil and Billy Markham' goes right along with Zenith's mission statement off the bat -- a dedication to raw, relentless truth telling, and to produce veraciously thought provoking theatre -- the epic poem is a beautiful and masterful piece of writing, and it's not soft on the story either, it's thought provoking, and dark, and full of layers, and ultimately it was told with a great deal of truth by its one and only star, Aaron Lyons, who plays both 'The Devil' and 'Billy Markham,' and also it's narrator. The production itself was unlike anything I have ever se... full review

This play was meant for Aaron Lyons! He gives incredible life and depth to the Shel Silverstein poem. Complete with a live band and a dancer, Aaron takes you on the journey to hell and back with Billy Markham. He effortlessly switches between characters and truly embodies each one. Make sure to catch a performance of this one. You won't be disappointed!... full review

This has set the bar for epic poem presentations for me. I was drawn in from the first word to the last. Having it preformed at a cocktail lounge where I could sip bourbon while hearing about the Devil was pure genius. You can see my full review here. http://spencercotter.wordpress.com/2013/06/25/sip-some-bourbon/... full review

What a maniac! Great recitation. If you're reading this, then you missed it, and you're probably sorry. Bravo, Aaron.... full review

What a ride. Aaron has created a fiercely loveable show here rife with soul, surprises and Shel-Silverstein-at-his-sexiest poetry. Excellent pacing, excellent idea and overall excellent production. ... full review

I loved it so much I want to see it again (and again, and again)!! Alas, I cannot, and that makes me sad. Aaron Lyons kicks ass! The scoring behind the story was intense and groovy and fitting for every moment of the show. I just loved it!!!... full review

What an awesome ride! I had such a good time watching this play. I felt like I was in a speakeasy in New Orleans. Aaron gave it all to the audience. He took us on a roller coaster ride thru heaven and hell with endless energy and sophisticated nuances. I really had fun!... full review

This was not only one of the best shows I've seen at the Fringe, but perhaps one of the best shows I've EVER seen. Aaron Lyons is a consummate raconteur. Aided by the gorgeous and talented Ruth Fox, and backed by a swingin' three piece band, he holds the audience spellbound as he spins Shel Silverstein's epic tale live on stage. Do NOT miss this show. ... full review

Aaron Lyons is a theatrical POWERHOUSE. He turns in not just one stunning performance, but five. His characterizations are distinct, full-bodied and nuanced, and his complete command of the room stops time in its tracks. The material is thought-provoking and morally challenging, but the best of it is that it is so much FUN. THE DEVIL AND BILLY MARKHAM is the best party you'll get to all summer long. ... full review