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| Photo: Paul Kolnik |
Everyone Please Yell Now!
What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas; but what happens when Sin City crosses paths with the nation's capital? Absolute joy, when referring to the world famous Blue Man Group, which opened a six-day limited engagement at the venerable National Theatre last night. There's entertainment, and then there's entertainment: The Blue Man Group is the latter... pure energy from start to finish (without saying a word.)
If you're not familiar with the Blue Man Group, allow me to preface my review with the following disclaimer... Words can't begin to describe the level of creativity, humor and overall excitement that's lovingly poured into each 90-minute show. Sure there's lots of color... and drums, and Toblerones; but that's just a taste of what's to come.
In order to truly appreciate the Blue Man Group, it's important to understand the rules, such as "No farbing, plerking or sexting your constituency." The audience is treated to this, and many other random warnings (via electronic scrolling signs) before the boys in blue take center stage. Once there, it's impossible to take your eyes off of them. The boys take turns catching marshmallows (about 50 per show!) Twinkies (30 boxes a week... thank goodness they use Twinkie Lights) and more than one's fair share of grief and torment (from each other, of course.) Thankfully, it's all in good fun... even during audience participation (where one poor guy is plucked from the crowd, fitted in a painter's suit and covered in paint backstage.)
Despite not saying a word, the Blue Man Group speaks volumes with their expressions... looks of wonder and chagrin (with a touch of fear, for good measure.) They're a joy to behold, and charming to boot. A dinner skit involving a young woman from the audience and Twinkies is equal parts touching and hilarious. By the time the show concludes, the entire Orchestra section is covered in silly string and smiles. Just remember... "Please give us our balls back." You'll know what I mean, when the time comes.
Outside of a listless drum trio towards the end, this show is nothing short of spectacular. It's the Kid's Choice Awards on Nickelodeon... but for all ages (and minus the mess.) Don't arrive late (unless you like being in the SPOTLIGHT) and leave your inhibitions at the door.
I'd love to tell you more; but half the fun is discovering it for yourself. If it's your first time seeing them, prepare to be amazed. If it's your second, third or tenth visit... You already know what's in store: Sit back and enjoy the show.
The Blue Man Group appears at the National Theatre through May 11th. Tickets start at $48 and are available online (click here) or at the box office. There's also a lottery before each show, which gives you a chance to purchase up to two tickets for just $25 each. Click here for more information.
Grade: A-
