Sinking Ship Productions
presents

POWERHOUSE

Created by Josh Luxenberg (writer) and the Sinking Ship Ensemble
Directed by Jon Levin
Produced by Dina Vovsi
Stage Manager: Carly Levin
Puppet Design: The Puppet Kitchen
Costume Design: Erin Schultz
Lighting Design: Nicholas Houfek
Sound Design: Sean Brennan

Featuring: Erik Lochtefeld, Jessica Frey, Hanley Smith, Tyler Bunch, Spencer Lott, Eric Wright, Clare McNulty

Press Representative: David Gibss/DARR Publicity

New Ohio Theatre
154 Christopher Street
November 3- 23, 2014
http://www.powerhouse-theplay.com


POWERHOUSE introduces us to Raymond Scott, a composer and machine tinkerer unfamiliar to us. Many of his compositions were soon adapted for cartoons (Bugs Bunny, Ren and Stimpy, Daffy Duck, and Porgy Pig, among others). We are now being introduced to the man behind the music.

Raymond Scott is quite eccentric. Bland, yet obsessive about precision. He insists on perfection and having his Quintette play his songs with soul, testing their patience. His need for perfection takes a toll on those around him. He is not the easiest person to work or live with as his band members and many wives come and go.

He is more comfortable with his instruments and machines than with people. He is driven to create the grand machine that can allow people to listen to compositions in a composer’s mind. His obsession went beyond what was humanly possible, and kept others distant.

The cartoon puppets that appear in the show are hilarious, and a reminder of the Warner Brothers Saturday morning cartoon shows. The animators and their “Kalamity Cartoon” puppets steal the show.

The play is an introduction to an interesting American composer. Though a bit confusing, as it moves from scene to scene, one gets to know the various pieces and periods that makeup Scott’s life. The set design with the rolling desks that serve as pianos, machines, TVs and more are handy. Erik Lochtefeld does a fine job portraying Scott and the animators are great fun.

- Gloria Talamas -