What I liked
Spectacular show! I did not know what to expect from Jennifer Kenyon’s beautiful solo show. I met her at a Fringe event and liked her personality immediately but had no idea about her show, I just knew I wanted to see it. I am so glad I went in with no expectations because my mind was blown.
Aurora and Larry is waaaay above your average solo show. Jennifer is such a talented performer and storyteller she makes it “look easy”. She tells the story of two siblings who were raised by dysfunctional parents on a commune and how each has reacted to that experience. She could beautifully create the grown-up Larry (known as “Polaris” at the commune) with just a facial gesture, shrug of the shoulder, and a small drop in vocal register. I loved her use of music—-a cute little ukulele number about commune life that Aurora plays and sings and then the darker rap number the grown-up, (now a war vet) Larry belts out. Jennifer has mad skills with her rhymes and the song wraps up completely what happened to Larry. The show concludes with a wonderful, dervish dance that allows the audience to sit back and let the experience wash over. To process what we’ve seen. A great ending. I felt like I was one with the Universe. Brava!
PS I think this might actually be a play with more characters. It’s so rich with complex, interesting characters I could see it as a longer play…I’d love to see the actors play the parents, members of the commune and especially Larry/Polaris. Even a tv show.
What I didn't like
Nothing. Worked perfectly for me.
My overall impression
Jennifer Kenyon has mad skills—as a performer, writer, rapper, scarf dancer and ukulele player! “Aurora and Larry” is a unique and breathtaking solo show about two siblings who grew up on a commune with dysfunctional parents who internalize that experience in very different ways. It is unique, funny and heartbreaking. Mesmerizing from start to finish. I hope it gets an extension so more people can see it. Brava Jennifer!
Highly recommend!
