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Life on the Fringe An inventive premise, great acting, and busy directing make On the Air worth staying tuned for. Three actors in period garb play old-time radio performers. When their boss tells them that one of the three has to be fired to save money, they form a number of secret alliances to eliminate the competition. Lois (Kerry Silva) rents - yes, rents - two pistols and convinces foley artist Sal (Sam Kusnetz) to take her side. When Lois is out of the room, Timothy (Darius Pierce) gets Sal to side with him and bump off Lois. There are more double-crosses here than you can shake a mike stand at. A lot of good ideas went into this show. The small part of the boss, who has one speech at the start of the play, is awarded to an audience member. Sound effects - seagulls squawking, the wind blowing - are created by the audience, on cue. In the heat of the moment, some unexpected (and decidedly radio-unfriendly) characters are thrown into the mix, like a magician and a mime. Funny stuff. The cast, from Rhode Island (check out their interesting tour diary at www.cardboardbox.org) is likeable and talented. Silva's vocal range is particularly impressive. This is a sure bet for CBC radio fans and anyone in the mood for a clever comedy. |