Review: MY BUDDY BILL Scores Big

I know that people are more prone to go to the mainstream plays that they have heard of before or that they've "seen the movie of." But take my word for it, sometimes you need to step out of the box and go to see something new.

Birmingham is very fortunate to have several theatres who are adventurous enough to try some very interesting shows. Birmingham Festival Theatre is definitely one of those theatres. And tonight was one of those nights.

MY BUDDY BILL is written by Rick Cleveland, who has also written for The West Wing, Six Feet Under, Mad Men, Under the Dome and House of Cards. With his wit and insider stories of Washington and Hollywood, Cleveland has written a fascinating story about his unlikely friendship with President Bill Clinton.

John McGinnis portrays Rick Cleveland, but really what he does is become Rick Cleveland as he weaves a story for 75 minutes that takes you from the unusual start of this friendship until the unexpected end. It makes you view people that you have only seen on the news in a more real and relatable way, but also shows you how difficult their lives must be.

McGinnis is funny, quirky, relatable and sincere. This story becomes his story and he draws you in immediately with his funny smirk and his boyish charm. He makes us feel his excitement each time he gets called by his buddy Bill and lets us in on some unbelievable adventures. It is hard to not believe all of this actually happened to McGinnis as well as Cleveland.

As with any one man show, I worry about how static it might get. Bethe Ensey has done a remarkable job of keeping McGinnis moving and the stories lively and interesting, while still looking natural and real. The time seemed to fly and I was sad when it was over.

MY BUDDY BILL uses few props and a simple set, but tells an interesting, hilarious and poignant story about a life style we can only imagine. It will keep you entertained and engaged from start to finish. It is a great chance to step out and see something different.

MY BUDDY BILL runs from now until February 20 at Birmingham Festival Theatre. Call 205-933-2383 or go to BFTOnline.org for exact show dates and times.

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