DRUNK CHRISTMAS – Adapted by Ren Manley from the novel by Charles Dickens; Directed by Macbeth Richardson. Produced by Audacious Theatre Company (various breweries – see their website) through December 22. Tickets available at 720-445-242 or info@audaciousimmersive.com.
What the dickens have they done to Dickens?? You’d think ol’ Charlie would be spinning in his grave but I’ve heard it rumors that he was a bit of a tippler himself. So, he’d probably be there throwing “snow” at the Ghosts with the rest of us.
The basic story that the Audacious (in every sense of the word) players are telling is the same being played out in theatres all over the country. The difference is that both the actors and the audience (because of the brewery and bar playing spaces) are allowed –nay, encouraged – to drink while participating. It certainly adds to the fun and is vaguely reminiscent of old Fezziwig’s party.
Even though the playing space is carved out of the restricted space available in drinking establishments, the players make it work. The only hang-ups (literally) in a recent performance at the Fiction Brewery on Colfax was a cape caught in a trunk opening and the Ghost of Christmas Future bumping its head on a low hanging chandelier. Most of the props come out of said trunk while most of the costume pieces are hung on hat racks at the corners of the stage. Everything seems to be lovingly curated to make changes and transitions run smoothly. The sound design by Ren Manley added a special air of spookiness as thunder rocked the building. The costumes are a combination of steam punk and thrift stores and lovingly put together by Macbeth Richardson.
You have two more weekends to catch this raucous good fun. Or you’ll have to wait till next year to get drunk with Dickens.
A wow factor of 8!!