BWW Reviews: VENUS IN FUR Produced from Passion

The Fisch Haus hosted The Obstreperous Players' Venus in Fur, by David Ives, February 21st, 22nd and 23rd. A sexy, sinful production, produced by passion, highlighting two versatile actors.

Michael Webber and Karen Wild, directors, did a phenomenal job. The small space, designed by Mark Anderson, never felt cramped, but intimate. Bryan Welsby played Thomas Novacheck, a tortured writer-turned-director searching for a leading lady. He has the charisma and innate sex appeal necessary for Thomas. Susan Guntly, though obviously talented, was miscast as the complicated leading-lady-hopeful Vanda. I look forward to seeing her in the future, but this particular role was not a good fit. She did seem much more comfortable with her character for the play-within-a-play. The two characters engage in a cat and mouse game, blurring the lines between fantasy and reality, leaving the audience intrigued and feeling a little mischievous.

Attention must be paid to the efforts of a few close college friends who just love theatre. They have a story to tell so they found a way to make it happen. The world of theatre needs more actors with gumption to take matters into their own hands. Pooling their talents and resources to produce challenging, gritty theatre. Their passion makes all the difference. Bravo to the Obstreperous Players.

However, there were some aspects that detracted from the otherwise enjoyable evening- for example the lack of heating. February may not be the best time to do a show in an unregulated environment. Including the inappropriately long curtain speech, the audience had to remain seated in freezing temperatures for two hours. We've all suffered for our art, but that is asking too much. Regardless, the Fisch Haus is a fun venue- complete with concrete floors, exposed brick walls and piping, artwork and beautiful architecture.

The Fisch Haus is located at 524 S Commerce.