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Addicted. . .a comedy of substance
By Jenny Sandman
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This show is like real life-it's funny, then it's not, and then it's over.
- ----Mark Lundholm
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Lundholm was a self-described "Ritalin boy", -- a hyperactive child with a temperamental and violent father. He began drinking at a very young age, which led to further addictions to a cornucopia of drugs. The drug usage spiraled out of control, leading to a crime spree, a prolonged bout of homelessness, and a life-changing suicidal moment in a motel. An addict is "energy without grace" as Lundholm describes how he was caught in a downward spiral of fear and anger. He makes no excuses for his past behavior but simply leads us through his road of addiction and recovery. The unique insights he offers along the way apply to all of us since, as he points out, we're all addicted to something -- whether it's food, sleep, work, sex, or coffee--or performing.
Renowned actor Bob Balaban is a thoughtful and attentive director. He keeps things moving, carefully differentiating between moments and moods, and uses Lundholm's relentless energy to full advantage. Overall this is a minimalist performance that lets the story speak for itself. The stage is bare, except for a softly backlit and elegiac wall of beer bottles. . Some very creative lighting and sound effects help him recreate the characters in his life--and the voices in his head.
Addicted is both hilarious and self-deprecating. In a former life, Lundholm could have been a salesman par excellence; now, he's one step away from being a motivational speaker. He's just that dynamic and charismatic. He doesn't invite pity or empathy, just a chance to tell his story. And it's a deeply funny, illuminating story, worthy of Balaban's direction and an extended Off-Broadway run.
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ADDICTED Written and performed by Mark Lundholm Directed by Bob Balaban Set Design by Walt Spangler Lighting Design Paul Miller Costume Design by Catherine Zuber Sound Design by Randy Hansen and Duncan Edwards Running time: One hour and fifteen minutes with no intermission Zipper Theatre, 336 West 37th Street; 212-239-6200 Reviewed by Jenny Sandman based on December 13th performance Closing 2/08/04 |
Mendes at the Donmar
Our Review
At This Theater
Leonard Maltin's 2003 Movie and Video Guide
Ridiculous!The Theatrical Life & Times of Charles Ludlam
Somewhere For Me, a Biography of Richard Rodgers
The New York Times Book of Broadway: On the Aisle for the Unforgettable Plays of the Last Century
6, 500 Comparative Phrases including 800 Shakespearean Metaphors by CurtainUp's editor.
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