The Column Online

MELANCHOMEDY: FUNNY SCENES ABOUT SAD FOLKS

MELANCHOMEDY: FUNNY SCENES ABOUT SAD FOLKS

Written by Jenn Dodd and Ben Hill

WaterTower Theatre

Performed by Jenn Dodd

Directed by Brendan McLoughlin
Video Editor/Producer/Sound Engineer – Sharon Jamilkowski
Local Producer/Script Supervisor – Jenny Ledel
Stage Manager – Brendan McLoughlin
Narrator – Tony Hendra


Reviewed Performance: 3/6/2015

Reviewed by Elaine Plybon, Associate Critic for John Garcia's THE COLUMN

Award-winning Jennifer Dodd is back in town and making a scene, actually several scenes, in her solo comedy offering at the Out of the Loop Fringe Festival in Addison. The show, which features eight distinct characters, is a playground for Dodd to showcase her skills in character acting. With terrific comedic timing and an uncanny ability to literally transform herself in front of the audience, Dodd delivered a solid performance that provided insight into the comedy within the tragedies of life.

From a sad clown attempting suicide to an 80-year-old grandmother and former porn star, the monologues were well-received by the audience in the small studio theater.

A nearly empty set of eight chairs, various wigs and costumes produced a vulnerable atmosphere for Dodd as the performance demands full attention on her. A difficult task for even the most seasoned actor, Dodd expertly sauntered and commanded the stage as she took on each role.

Sound effects placed scenes in the woods, in an office during an interview, or whatever the setting of her characters. These sounds and the lighting were exactly timed to provide support without taking attention off of Dodd. A soundtrack included narration by Tony Hendra of National Lampoon and This is Spinal Tap fame.

Jennifer Dodd’s hour long performance was extremely enjoyable, disturbingly funny, and delightfully performed. It is well worth adding to your list of Fringe Festival must-sees.

Melanchomedy’s last performance was Sunday, March 8th at 2:00 pm

OUT OF THE LOOP FRINGE FESTIVAL
WaterTower Theatre
Addison Conference & Theatre Centre
15650 Addison Road
Addison, TX 75001

The Festival runs from March 6th through March 15th, weekends and weekdays.
All productions have only two-four performances and some theatre space seating is limited

Some productions contain adult language, sexual situations, and/or violence. Please consult the box office for content information regarding a particular production

Festival Passes are $65.00 for one admission to all 20 productions. Individual tickets are $10.00. WaterTower Theatre subscribers receive $10.00 off each festival pass.

For information on and to purchase festival passes and tickets, visit www.watertowertheatre.org or call their box office at 972-450-6232. In person reservations are also welcome, but seating is limited for most performances.