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Show: The Toxic Avenger

Posted on November 23rd, 2009 by Anna Zhan.
Categories: Blog.

Randomly, at the suggestion from a couple of volunteers from the Theater Development Fund, Chris and I elected to try the Off-Broadway production: The Toxic Avenger.  (After having been delighted by Avenue Q, we asked about comedies, and this was recommended.)

It’s really hard for a person like me to turn down the opportunity to see a show about New Jersey’s first superhero, who was born of toxic waste.  (And, admittedly, the idea of an on-site bar serving drinks that you are allowed to bring into the theater also had its appeal.)

The story it set at Exit 13B off the New Jersey Turnpike, at the fictional city of Tomaville (aka Traumaville).  The score boasts songs with titles like Evil is Hot, Thank God She’s Blind, All Men Are Freaks, and other amusing titles.

The most impressive part of this show (other than the voice of the woman who played the nun, the mother, and the mayor) was the costume changes.  I have no idea how they change so quickly, with two men (White Dude and Black Dude) playing dozens of roles.  The show pokes fun at this as well, finally putting two characters played by the same person on stage at the same time (you just have to see it.)

The music was fun, and it was clear that everyone - both in the band atop the barrels of toxic waste and the actors on the stage below - was having a lot of fun.  It was a good show to see, and tickets at the TKTS booth only ran us about $40 each, so it was easy on the wallet, too.

Definately recommended for a light-hearted evening.  Especially if there are geeks in your number.  Apparently it’s only in NYC through 1/03/10, so get a move on.

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