Fully Committed at The Aurora Fox

So last Sunday I got the chance to see Fully Committed at the Aurora Fox, which, I have to say, is possibly the funniest play I’ve ever seen. It’s definitely the funniest play I’ve seen this year, that is certain. If you get the chance to catch it, do! You will not regret it.

The play is about Sam, and out of work Midwest actor trying to find his break in New York City. To make money he works the reservations line at a “four star, multiple award-winning, ridiculously expensive, trendy, Upper East Side Manhattan restaurant”, according to the playbill. It’s normally manned by three people, but his two co-works are out (one because his car has stalled out on the LIE and one because she recently learned her father has Lyme disease). So poor Sam is stuck alone, manning the line all by himself. At Christmas. And the restaurant is booked through February.

Sam has to deal with several customers, an unhelpful staff and a demanding and egotistical chef.

The play has 40 characters, and just one actor, the very talented Steven Burge. A show like this is always an enormous undertaking, and it’s always great to see someone take it on so well. There are 40 very distinct characters and all are brilliantly acted by Steven. I couldn’t take my eyes off him the whole night. Each character has its own distinct voice, body language and aura, I nearly forgot that the whole play was just that one actor.

As the dorky theatre vixen I am, I have incredible respect for Steven in taking on this role, but I also have a crazy amount of respect for director Terry Dodd. When I was reading this play I couldn’t for the life of me, figure out how to direct it. I’ve directed large casts, small casts, but a cast of one? One man who does 40 characters? I was stumped. I felt like every idea I had felt phony and staged. Terry Dodd’s direction is neither of those things. The play felt honest and natural, each character was distinct and alive. It was intriguing to watch.

The other element of the play that I really loved was the sound, by El Armstrong. The opening music to the show sets the mood for the entire play. It almost makes the play seem like a movie or a TV show, which adds a great contrast to the intimate 72 seat theater the show is playing in. It makes the experience unique.

I can’t even begin to think of an element I didn’t like. The show was great all around, and I had so much fun seeing it. Anyone who has ever worked in the food industry, especially around Christmas, can easily relate to the show. Heck, anyone who’s experienced Christmas can relate to the show.

A word of warning though, get your tickets soon. The word is out on this show and tickets are selling fast. I have been assured that there are several left, but that shows are selling quickly. For tickets you can call 303-739-1970 or go to www.aurorafox.org. Tell them the Lobby Vixen sent you, and you can get a free concessions item (Try Sam’s White Christmas Dream!! It’s dreamy!!). Hurry the show closes December 20th!