What I liked
I liked every single game and prop and sound cue. I was shocked and delighted by the simplicity of much of it — spilling the notes, things within things, doors not opening or closing — many times I was like – a baby would laugh at this! — which is high praise I believe. I love the mise en scene — the dresses, the wigs, the props, the make up, the masks. I love the way Jackie clocks every single thing that happens in the theater and uses all of it. I like how Jackie describes people’s clothes when talking to the people in the back. I like the jump scares. A perfect mix of hilarity and dread.
What I didn't like
I felt like the show was still ripping itself up when it ended. I look forward to seeing where the ending ends up as the show evolves.
My overall impression
Hysterical is a terrifying spectacle about doors and the dresses that are caught in them. From lights up to lights down, Jackie Skinner has the audience in the palm of her glovéd hand. Btw, if you like lights up and lights down you’re gonna love Hysterical. The lights turn on and off a lot! Jackie Skinner is so goooood at clown. Watching her try to open a notebook with too many notes stuck in it!! Are you kidding? Trying to close a door that won’t stay close? Sooo stupid. The skill of Jackie’s clown work is purifying. Hysterical’s use of tension — both in its patient comedy and in its genuinely terrifying moments — feels new and pays off in a moving and disturbing and thoroughly entertaining show. Tension you can cut with a check!! (Producers — snatch up this show and keep it going forever!)
