DIXIE’S TUPPERWARE PARTY – Written and performed by Kris Andersson. Presented by the Denver Center for the Performing Arts (Garner Galleria Theatre, 14th and Curtis, Denver) through August 17. Tickets available at 303-893-4100 or denvercenter.org.
Anyone who has ever been to Dixie Longate’s little party, no matter how long ago, will never forget her. My first dip into Dixie was on her original trip through Denver – what? 10? 15? Years ago? Dixie, my dear, you are holding up as well as the Tupperware I bought way back when. She is the most perfect representative of Southern raunchy gentility you could ever meet. She is the combination of a stand-up comic, an improv artist, and a sweet, genuine, real lady.
The inventive ways she demonstrates her “product” start with the conventional use; then rapidly progress to a more realistic option for most of this modern audience. For instance, her cake carrier can be used for a sheet cake or two dozen cupcakes. Even more likely, it also easily lends itself to carrying about 30 Jello shots to your next tailgate party. The medium-sized bow,l which all of us had, can be used for stirring up that sheet cake but can also be used when your kids are likely to upchuck. Then rinse it out and whip up a salad for dinner!!
Not only do we get usage tips, but we also get the history of Tupperware and how Miss Brownie Wise created the whole monster that became “home parties” for a multitude of products. Some about as far from kitchenware as you can get.
Dixie has a gift for engaging people in the audience in her shenanigans. But she does it in such a loving, comical way, carefully choosing those who would not be embarrassed by being called out so that everyone in the audience goes along with the jokes and applauds her target. Right, Rodney?? She ends the show with stories of her own life and troubles and a heartfelt plea for everyone to be especially nice to each other in these turbulent times. I’m sure a few tears flowed besides mine.
My request to you, dear reader, is this! If you have never been to Dixie’s party, treat yourself to a date with Dixie. You won’t be sorry. Don’t think you are too cool to laugh at something so silly. You may surprise even your stuffy self. If you saw her years ago, go back and say Hi again. She will remember you – or, at least, pretend to.
Dixie is winding down her 28-year journey with this last performance in Denver. Why, you ask? Why? Why? Why? Well, her kids are getting older, and she needs to get home and knock a few heads together. Or maybe she’s just tired and this good thing she has created has run its course.
We’ll miss you, Kris. Thanks for all the laughs.
A WOW factor of 9!!