Review: NOISES OFF at Indiana Repertory Theatre

Indiana Repertory Theater closes its season with the slamming of the door, or rather many slamming doors, in Noises Off. I'll admit that farces don't tend to tickle my funny bone, but this one is an exception to the rule. It rises above the general stereotype of mistaken identities and slapstick (though there is plenty of both) by adding another brilliant layer. It is a play within a play, three acts and two intermissions packed with nonstop humor.

In the first act we meet a cast rehearsing a farce called "Nothing On". This opening gives each character a chance to warm up and establish some basic ticks. The next two acts expertly build on those so that the audience always feels like it's in on the joke. In the second and third act, the audience watches the matinée and evening performances unfold. The hilarity lies in the farce that is unfolding behind the scenes as the cast acts out another on the stage. One character describes the situation as "becoming farcical" and the on-the-nose description is perfect.

Garry (Jerry Richardson) goes above and beyond with his acrobatic physical comedy. He's able to say so much with one incredulous look. Heidi Kettenring is also particularly good as the tittering Belinda, attempting to keep everything running smoothly in the midst of the chaos. The cast creates a frenzied atmosphere that adds to the comedy.

The production also includes one of the best sets I've seen at the IRT and that is saying something. Scenic designer Bill Clarke create a two-story home with seven doors to facilitate the raucous show. It's beautifully designed and incredibly functional for the unique needs of the show. At the opening of each act the curtain is closed, which allows for a fun reveal and audience applause.

There is some language and one risqué costume, so I would suggest keeping the laughs to teens or older for this one.

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