Mrs. Murray's Menagerie

See it if You’ve never seen a focus group. It’s like going to work. No story. Limited tension, drama that results in nothing. Felt like going to work.

Don't see it if You prefer storytelling. None to be found here. Performances were good but...

See it if You like improv. This show grew out of scenes written by The Mad Ones. Lacks structure.

Don't see it if You like shows with narrative, and a more traditional story. This show seems like it needed an Act 2.

See it if you want to experience a focus group for yourself.

Don't see it if you want something with conflict, plot and drama.

Also I have enjoyed many shows at Ars Nove, but I expected more from this group. The plot is thin; it never rises to some sort of climax and with one or two exceptions, very little character development. Not much in the conflict department even though there was ample opportunities to explore race, class and gender constructs. Those ideas barely rise above a simmer. It doesn't really gel into a satisfying theatre piece.... Read more Read less

See it if Superficial. Stereotypic. Predictable and boring. Actors made real efforts with cliched material.

Don't see it if you want to see something original.

See it if You really miss the 80s. Or even if you sorta miss the 80s...it's fun to go back in time.

Don't see it if You want a transformative experience. The show is entertaining, but doesn't have the profound themes that Miles for Mary did.

See it if you enjoy quick, somewhat witty dialogue.

Don't see it if if you want a play that builds and has a conclusion or resolution. There's a certain evenness with no change in tone or development.

See it if A slice of life, ensemble piece interests you.

Don't see it if A plot driven, big laughs so is what your looking for.

Also I saw this groups previously play, “Miles for Mary” and really enjoyed it. This one is not on same level. There’s really no plot. And it’s not a character study as the characters don’t get enough room to breathe. I would have been ok with that had it produced more laughs, but it mostly produced smiles. Extremely talented actors, I just wish they had more to do.... Read more Read less

See it if You like character studies. Subtle comedy.

Don't see it if You’re looking for hug laughs, or a plot driven play.

Also I appreciated that the play is something different in style and structure, but the laughs just are big or frequent enough to not feel disappointed.... Read more Read less

See it if you love the Mad Ones and want to see these great actors work or if you want to see a work in progress and get a glimpes into the process.

Don't see it if you want a clear plot or dramatic tension. Nothing much happens. There are funny moments but a lot of missed opportunities. It gets tedious.

See it if If you like strong ensemble work, subtle & sly writing, and a story that "shows" rather than "tells"

Don't see it if You like flash