Lizardboy: A One Man Show is a window into the life of a 9 year-old Columbian boy. Victor Gomez, as both actor and playwright, creates a whole setting simply through anecdotes and role playing.
This is a play that deals with a child’s innocence and the development of violence due to one’s surrounding community. It is certainly a thought-provoking subject matter that is presented from a child’s perspective. This results in a serious subject becoming more playful, making it an interesting experience as an audience member.
A one-man show is always an admirable feat, especially if the actor can keep your attention for the whole duration while creating in-depth characters and setting. Although at first a grown man playing a 9-year old is a little alarming in my opinion, Gomez pulls it off convincingly.
The set, lighting and venue all come together very well in transforming the space – it goes from being an attic to a playground in an instant.
There are times when not only do I enter this world that is created in the attic but also the child’s mind and imagination, which can be quite exciting at times. For those who are looking to enter a different world for an hour, I would definitely recommend Lizardboy.
Note: Even though seat cushions are provided, the 60 minute show begins to get a bit uncomfortable due to unusual seating arrangement in the theatre backspace.
Details:
Lizardboy: A One Man Show plays at the Theatre Passe Muraille Backspace (16 Ryerson Ave.)
Showtimes:
Tuesday August 9, 9:30pm
Thursday August 11, 7:00 pm
Saturday August 13, 7:00 pm
Sunday August 14, 9:30 pm
– All individual SummerWorks tickets are $15 at the door (cash only). Tickets are available online at www.artsboxoffice.ca, by phone at 416.504.7529, in person at the Arts Box Office (located at Theatre Passe Muraille, 16 Ryerson Ave., One block North East of Bathurst & Queen W. M-F 12PM-7PM, Weekends 10AM-8PM) (Advance tickets are $15 +HST and $1 service fee)
– Several money-saving passes are available if you plan to see at least 3 shows