The Illusory Adventures of a Dreamer (FringeNYC)
About the show
Part of FringeNYC: Inspired by Ibsen's "Peer Gynt," a young man goes on a fantastical journey to find himself. Peer must confront a crisis of sexual identity as he encounters gluttonous Trolls, a mischievous guardian, and his one true love. #WhoAmI? More…
Categories: Comedy, Drama, Local. From Rhapsody Collective. Written by Michael Bradley. Directed by Chris Goodrich.
"Michael Bradley’s retelling is a lean and mean fantasy-driven machine that captures the heart of Ibsen’s play in verse and–with the help of an outstanding cast–makes room for Peer’s particular search for his true sexual status amidst a plethora of naysayers and inhospitable oppugnants...Fischetti’s choreography is stunning...Mr. Goodrich’s efficient direction could be tighter at times (it is at intervals uneven) but overall serves the script with evidentiary warmth and support." Full Review
"While Bradley retains the essence of Ibsen's story, he takes much creative license here…Bradley's Peer is gay and coming out creates a huge dilemma for him. As for the acting, it is uniformly good, with Taylor Turner well-cast as the shape-shifter Peer…It was invigorating to see this new take on the classic. While you won't see Peer eating the famous onion at the close of Bradley's play, you will find his protagonist psychologically layered and intriguing." Full Review
"Michael Bradley’s clever and creative retelling of Ibsen’s 'Peer Gynt' takes us through the maddening and sensual adventure of a young man wrestling with himself. I’ll be honest. I’m always on the fence when it comes to a retelling because it is hit or miss. This is a hit. In an intense 90 minutes, this energetic and connected ensemble cast take us on Peer’s adventures...Kudos to Turner for turning out a lovely portrayal of Peer Gynt, the whole cast for moving seamlessly through characters." Full Review
"'The Illusory Adventures of a Dreamer' would benefit from an occasional change of pace, and clarification of the different levels of consciousness the main character is in. The show also underlines how difficult it can be to find that perfect sweet spot of over-the-top campiness. But the play's structure is brilliant, and with some trimming of a few redundant parts, 'The Illusory Adventures of a Dreamer' could be a wonderful re-telling of a classic." Full Review
"This modern, streamlined 'Peer Gynt' successfully evokes a timelessness that allows its disparate settings to all fit together...With next to no set and deliberately provocative costumes, this play draws on the power of storytelling, especially Peer's grandiose lies, to create the world...Sometimes plagued with an aimlessness that makes even this condensed 'Peer Gynt' feel longer than it needs to be...An entertaining experience that is as thought-provoking as it is provocative." Full Review
See it if Everyone who identifies with the need of finding their own voice. Literature lovers and anyone interested in equality will love this show.
Don't see it if If you do not have an open mind.
See it if You are interested in a profound new take on a classic, and you believe theater can help show you your reality.
Don't see it if You really, really don't want to see beautiful people onstage, or think about who you are.
See it if you are a lover of Ibsen and Peer Gynt. This is a wonderful retelling of the story in today's terms.
Don't see it if you aren't open gay themes.
See it if You gay themes, good looking young guys, shows that move in time and space
Don't see it if A journey of sexual enlightenment and all that involves is not your thing.
See it if a show that might be a cross between Candide and Fellini's Satyricon (although merely R rated) appeals to you.
Don't see it if you're not fully in the Fringe spirit and can compromise a little on your expectations.
See it if You enjoy thought provoking theatre that is unlike anything you've seen before. A perfect combo of imaginative, funny, sexy and hilarious!
Don't see it if Adult themes and language offend you. Otherwise, this show is NOT to be missed!
See it if you want to play with reality of our illusion with some great staging seriously charismatic performers! The "Boyg" slays! As do the others!
Don't see it if you aren't willing to relinquish realities quickly in theatre and aren't interested in the arc of a character dealing with his sexuality
See it if You enjoy humorous references, physical humor, good acting, and enthusiastic performances.
Don't see it if You are offended easily.
See it if You want to see phenomenal acting through an intense story of finding yourself & understanding one's sexual identity.
Don't see it if Very sensitive to sexual material.
See it if You love a new take on a classic
Don't see it if Bondage scares you
See it if You like excellent ,original choreography;heartful,endearing actors,and a very attractive cast!
Don't see it if You are looking for a clever ending,or any kind of set staging.
See it if You can handle a work in progress. Goes on for about 10 mins too long, but still entertaining. Peer has a very solid ensemble carrying him.
Don't see it if You're uncomfortable with homosexual content or expecting perfection. It's an ambitious task and I salute the writer for a valiant attempt.
See it if You're ready for a fresh take on a classic
Don't see it if You don't have an open mind
See it if You like fun adaptations, Raunchy shows with homosexual protagonists, you have a sense of humor.
Don't see it if You're homophobic, or made uncomfortable by S & M, or dislike "journey stories".
See it if you like drama
Don't see it if you like short plays