In some ways, Stand Up if You’re Here Tonight seems to be about nothing and everything all at once.
With a magnificent and probably one of the most gracious introductions to a production, Stand Up if You’re Here Tonight delves into the art of theatre, the luxury of Netflix, love, loss, loneliness, comfort, and all the idiosyncrasies of life that may or may not drive a person crazy. Part standup, part existential crisis, and part play-within-a-play, this original comical theatrical experience is hosted by a man who has had just about enough.
Written and directed shrewdly by John Kolvenbach, The Huntington presents Stand Up if You’re Here Tonight live and in person at the intimate and immersive Maso Studio at the Huntington Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts through Saturday, March 23. The production is general admission and runs 60 minutes with no intermission with a special happening at the end of the performance. Do not miss a moment of this show because it is worth it. Click here for more information and for tickets.
Introduced by breezy 60s lounge music and surrounded by various vintage furnishings including lit chandeliers, doorways off their hinges, a ladder, a metal bird cage, and what starts out as a wooden lectern by Kristine Holmes and Sam Galvao, Stand Up if You’re Here Tonight is unveiled with frenetic urgency and earnestness expertly navigated by host Jim Ortlieb.
In a gray suit making a casual entrance, Jim Ortlieb guides the surrounding audience into a performance so engaging and interactive that this critic barely has time to take notes which was a joy. Lighting designers M Berry and Makenna Harnden’s rhythmic and atmospheric lighting acted as its own character perfectly timed with the quick pace and tricky transitions that lead to the most unexpected places.
All of this production’s surprises will not be revealed here. With a welcoming grin and a dose of self awareness, Ortlieb delves into some of his own vivid memories, imagination, and experiences with relatable and sometimes dark humor, but what is most important is that audience is here, present, and in the present. Laugh and be moved. That is what really matters.
Written and directed shrewdly by John Kolvenbach, The Huntington presents Stand Up if You’re Here Tonight live and in person at the intimate and immersive Maso Studio at the Huntington Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts through Saturday, March 23. The production is general admission and runs 60 minutes with no intermission with a special happening at the end of the performance. Do not miss a moment of this show because it is worth it. Click here for more information and for tickets.