What I liked
Every year I have shows that I have to see out a pseudo-obligation, because one of the performers came to see MY show and I want to return the favor. Usually it’s a clap clap clap “great job” ho hum “ok, that’s over” kind of thing. That’s why this performance came so far out of left field to surprise the hell out of me. You’d think for a fringe show that a character that is naked, covered in blood for part of the show would be the figurative “money shot”, but trust me when I say that although Erica is undoubtedly gorgeous doing just that, the rest of the piece is so compelling that you almost forget about that part. Erica blurs the distinction between performer and performance to the point that if you don’t have questions after the show you weren’t paying attention; and you WILL be paying attention…the Countess commands it. I was particularly impressed with Erica’s transitions from character to character. Normally “seamless” is a positive word for performances, but I would say the opposite is true here. One moment it’s Erica, and the next moment it is clearly not. It’s also very impressive how raw and deep down emotional Erica gets doing this, more emotionally naked than she was physjcally before and then, just like turning off a light switch, click, it’s off. The Countess is back. Wow. This is a riveting performance and I encourage everyone to see it. Just don’t be surprised if you a a little blood on you…or a little madness IN you.
What I didn't like
The only thing that took me out a little was honestly the air conditioning in the space, which I appreciated don’t get me wrong, but in the quieter moments it took a little bit of my focus. Other that that no complaints.
Also, nobody actually got blood on them as far as I could tell. I just said that above because it sounds good.
My overall impression
GO. You know what that means. It means go and buy a ticket right now before you miss it.
