“Lives of the Saints” opened Friday and is a witty and enjoyable show for many different types of audiences.
“Lives of the Saints,” directed by Rick Mokler, is seven mini-plays packed into one evening. The several one-acts do not relate to each other but are for your viewing pleasure. The show includes many plot scenarios ranging from a repair man who falls in love with his washing machine, two burly men trying to build the tower of Babel, two lonely mayflies who fall in love but find out they only have one day to live, and more.
“I like that it’s a series of stories, it keeps everything fast-paced and interesting,” said theatre major Angela McLafferty.
The Jurkowitz held almost a full house on opening night and attracted a diverse audience, ranging from City College students to local Santa Barbarans looking for a laugh.
The production is Saturday Night Live-like, the audience laughing with the actor’s undeniable wit and charm. They are up to the challenge of giving a comedic performance and giving viewers much reason to tell their friends about it. Between the set changes, two swing dancers perform. Although it is meant to keep the mood lively, it tends to get repetitive and humdrum. However, it does add a fun atmosphere to the intimate Jurkowitz.
The set is simple because it acts as seven different scenes. Few props are used for the mini-plays; the costumes are what make the show.
The lighting is colorful and a hand-painted montage hangs above the set. It includes comedic “saints,” who have been known for their wit, such as Lucille Ball, Bill Cosby, Whoopie Goldberg and more.
“Babel’s in Arms,” one of the mini-plays, starred Travis Nefores and Sean Jackson. It is about two men who attempt to build the Tower of Babel.
With many man-grunts and dumb humor, the two are most enjoyable. Nefores and Jackson are Bert-and-Ernie like and will have you laughing throughout their entire performance. Jackson gives an outstanding performance, making it my favorite scene of the evening.
“Time Flies,” is a play about two mayflies who begin an instant chemistry upon meeting. Adam Trent and Lucia Gill play the two love-insects.
The mayflies go back to Gill’s home for some caterpillar snacks and, while watching television, discover that mayflies only live for one day after mating.
Upon hearing this news, everything becomes chaotic and the two mate while stuffing their mouths with insect treats. Trent is hilarious.
“I love being a mayfly,” said Trent. “It’s my most favorite thing, ever.” Trent also mentioned he felt the first performance went well and was a little nervous about the reactions from viewers.
“It was the first time we had performed it in front of more than three people, so it was nerve-racking to see if the audience would think we were funny,” he said.
Director Rick Mokler also felt the show went well.
“We really learn a lot tonight with what works for the audience,” Mokler said. “They’re great actors and they’re doing a great job.”
“Lives of the Saints” is highly recommended for anyone looking for a laugh just before finals approach.
“Lives of the Saints” will be performed through December 10, so take a break from all of the non-studying you’ve been doing and have a laugh.