Breakneck Comedy of Errors
Written by Timothy Mooney
Adapted from Shakespeare’s Comedy of Errors
Directed by Michael McMillan
Audience Rating: PG mild language and innuendo
Run Time: 75 minutes, No Intermission
Accessible Seating: Available
Hearing Devices: Not Available
Sensory Friendly Performance: Not Available
Production Sound Level: Comfortable Volume
Noises or Visuals to Prepare For: None of Note
Reviewed by Jenny Wood
Breakneck Comedy of Errors is exactly what it sounds like – a 75 minute high speed version of Shakespeare’s Comedy of Errors… which is also exactly what it sounds like – a comedy… about… error. An Elizabethan sit-com set in 200 BC Ephesus.
Originally developed as a one man show by Timothy Mooney, Breakneck distills a complex premise involving two (or three) sets of twins with the same (or similar) names who were separated at birth, but now roam about the same town causing confusion.
If you are familiar with the source material, the resulting script is impressively concise and well-organized. Even seasoned Shakespeare fans will find themselves gasping “ohhhhhh” when some convoluted mistake of identity is finally made clear.
Director Michael McMillan has cast Allen Contemporary Theatre’s version as a three person show. This choice allows room for more broad action and physical comedy. Each of actors Jayden Mathews, Jake Lawrence Geary, and Carol M. Rice portray no less than six characters in a normally +/- 19 person plot.
Staged on an almost empty stage, with a bold backdrop by Shea McMillan, the theme here is primary colors. This theme carries through prop, costume, and Noah Steenbergen’s lighting design to keep things simple and clear.
The technical design keeps focus on the three actors and their wordplay. An exercise in character development and prop comedy, the result is controlled chaos and a lot of fun. The fact that I was at no point actually confused during this inarguably convoluted plot and is testament to the trio’s skillful execution.
While Breakneck may seem targeted at audiences who love Shakespeare, With an accessible script and quick run time, the production presents a great opportunity for a group or family night out - even those who think they are sick of or don’t understand Shakespeare will get plenty of laughs, and those who do actually love Shakespeare will have a blast.
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