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Culture Theatre

Fringe review: Death Ray Cabaret

DEATH RAY CABARET by Jordan Armstrong and Kevin Matviw. At the Monarch Tavern (12 Clinton). July 4-12 and 14 at 6 pm. See listing. Rating: NNNNN


Second City veterans and real-life couple Jordan Armstrong and Kevin Matviw write and star in this comedy cabaret full of sharp observations and clever improv. Over a dozen songs, the duo sets common frustrating scenarios – like forgetting your Facebook password and assembling Ikea furniture – to musical numbers inspired by 60s pop songs and classic Broadway tunes.

Armstrong’s impressive keyboard accompaniment grounds the show, while Matviw’s lines produce some of the biggest laughs. At one point he likens himself to a “President’s Choice Vin Diesel” (they’re both bald). And two instances call for audience participation and show off Armstrong and Matviw’s improv chops.

Death Ray Cabaret – directed by Shari Hollett – is playfully energetic through its 50-minute running time, punctuated by brief stage banter and, on opening night, reassuring hoots and hollers from the audience.

You’ll leave humming at least one of the songs, and likely massaging your cheeks from laughing so hard.

@michdas

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