Critic's Pick
Most people probably walk into Zombie-Logue expecting something different than what Hugo Theatrical West actually presents: a show about a zombie kvetching about zombie life? That sounds funny. And from this company — the same folks who produced the Don’t Cross the Streams in 2012 and Hot Damn! It’s the Loveland Frog in 2014 — it would make sense to expect zany, comedic fun.
But this show isn’t all funny business. It’s got some great comedic moments, but it’s more clever than hysterical. I enjoyed it immensely.
Playwright Michael Hall stars as Tom, a zombie brought back to life by a mysterious entity in the hopes that his story might potentially save the world. As the hour progresses we learn about Tom’s life before his undead state: his successes and his failures. Sometimes it’s blurry which are which.
Instead of going for bawdy laughs, Hall has written a script that tells a story of heartbreak, regret and principle — and one that earned a standing ovation at the performance I attended.
The makeup design by Bob Allen (assisted by Jess Adams) adds to the show without being over the top. Director Greg Procaccino has staged this piece with restraint; the simple set contains just what it needs to keep the zombie contained.
The good news is that Hall’s talent is uncontainable.
Kirk Sheppard is a professional counselor and theatre blogger, covering professional theatre in Cincinnati and surrounding areas. Follow his blog, The Sappy Critic.
Read the official 32-page FRINGE FESTIVAL GUIDE here and find the full performance lineup here.
