Review: THE MATRIXX Takes Audiences to a New Dimension at Edmonton's Spotlight Cabaret

Computer whiz Neon leads a humdrum existence: he struggles to create another YouTube-famous guitar cover after his first one goes viral, only pausing long enough to order takeout. One day, a hyper white rabbit bounces up to his apartment door, insisting the bewildered Neon follow him. So begins Neon’s unexpected foray into a world where time is a simulation and sunglasses-wearing agents abound. 

A parody of the 1999 science fiction film, The Matrixx is a fast-paced comedy adventure featuring flashy special effects and music by The Beatles, Taylor Swift, Evanescence, Harry Belafonte, and others. Directed by John Hudson, this escapist production stars Sheldon Elter as the often-befuddled Neon. Elter is joined by a small but mighty cast comprised of Ariel Gerard, Tyler Pinsent, and the show’s co-creator, Jeff Halaby.

There is never a dull moment as the performers sing, dance, and rattle off sly, sometimes-impromptu jokes from unexpected places in the sleek, 1920s-style venue. The flashy, futuristic lighting design lends itself perfectly to the show’s tech-filled narrative, as do the video elements on the large screens. Sarah Dowling and Mhairi Berg’s choreography brims with often-humorous combat and the costume design pays homage to the black leather get-ups in the film counterpart. Edmonton-specific references pepper the script, including Neon’s bemoaning of Gateway Boulevard traffic and his recollection of rescuing a stranger from the shiny depths of the Talus Balls. 

It also would be remiss not to mention the show’s accompanying four-course meal. Served in two parts (before the show and during intermission), the menu features elegantly-plated dishes inspired by the show. Notable options include the cherry-glazed Bomb Dot Com chicken and the decadent, ice cream-topped sticky toffee pudding attributed to Neon’s mom. The Matrixx’s cast are among the attentive servers and even share in the pre-show host/hostess duties.

Fans of The Matrix will be delighted by this quirky theatrical parody. Newcomers to the story’s complex world will also find much to enjoy but might benefit from watching the film (or getting the Wikipedia lowdown) beforehand. Audiences have until January 26 to snatch up the show’s last remaining tickets. 

Photo: Ariel Gerard and Sheldon Elter in The Matrixx. Photo supplied by Spotlight Cabaret. 

To post a comment, you must register and login.