Congress has cut federal funding for public media — a $3.4 million loss for LAist. We count on readers like you to protect our nonprofit newsroom. Become a monthly member and sustain local journalism.
This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
Theatre Review: 'Mommie Queerest' at Cabaret Ultra Suede
Jamie Morris and Brooks Braselman in 'Mommie Queerest' (photo by Mitch Soileau).
()
Jamie Morris' hilarious drag homage to Joan Crawford, Mommie Queerest, is back in Los Angeles once last time to round out a nationwide tour of the show.This reviewer has had the guilty pleasure of seeing this stage adaptation of Mommie Dearest twice before — and just like the film, this play gets better with every viewing. The production is a well-balanced and cohesive spoof that stays close enough to the film's narrative to evoke Faye Dunaway-nostalgia, but shines brightest through Morris' original jokes and content. Mommie Queerest features spot-on impersonations, playful physical comedy, cheeky satire, gender-bending silliness and striking Crawford-worthy costumes.
The cast of Mommie Queerest is lead by Morris through an impressive flurry of costume and scene changes. Morris plays a female impersonating Joan struggling for enduring fame through heavy lipstick, wigs, and rubber enhancements. He uses slurred mispronunciation, high camp, and sharply contorted gazes as a platform to satirize Dunaway's rendering of Crawford's rigid perfectionism. Morris remains precise, animated, and gratifying throughout the production. Brooks Braselman's performance as Christina Crawford is priceless. He is energetic and gutsy with impeccable comedic instincts and timing. Gavyn Michaels and Matt Crabtree complete the cast, adroitly playing tens of characters.
Under the direction of Christopher Kenney Mommie Queerest is fast-paced with highly choreographed slapstick and physical comedy. At times, actors cross the fourth wall or ad lib, which gives the show a hardy, easygoing feel despite all the quick scenes and action that occur on the stage. Although not credited, the costumes worn by Morris as Crawford are stunning.
Mommie Queerest is playing through October 1, 2011 at Ultra Suede. Tickets are $25 plus a two drink minimum and available online or via phone at 323-960-7774.
As Editor-in-Chief of our newsroom, I’m extremely proud of the work our top-notch journalists are doing here at LAist. We’re doing more hard-hitting watchdog journalism than ever before — powerful reporting on the economy, elections, climate and the homelessness crisis that is making a difference in your lives. At the same time, it’s never been more difficult to maintain a paywall-free, independent news source that informs, inspires, and engages everyone.
Simply put, we cannot do this essential work without your help. Federal funding for public media has been clawed back by Congress and that means LAist has lost $3.4 million in federal funding over the next two years. So we’re asking for your help. LAist has been there for you and we’re asking you to be here for us.
We rely on donations from readers like you to stay independent, which keeps our nonprofit newsroom strong and accountable to you.
No matter where you stand on the political spectrum, press freedom is at the core of keeping our nation free and fair. And as the landscape of free press changes, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust, but the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news from our community.
Please take action today to support your trusted source for local news with a donation that makes sense for your budget.
Thank you for your generous support and believing in independent news.
Chip in now to fund your local journalism
(
LAist
)
Trending on LAist
-
Censorship has long been controversial. But lately, the issue of who does and doesn’t have the right to restrict kids’ access to books has been heating up across the country in the so-called culture wars. -
With less to prove than LA, the city is becoming a center of impressive culinary creativity.
-
Nearly 470 sections of guardrailing were stolen in the last fiscal year in L.A. and Ventura counties.
-
Monarch butterflies are on a path to extinction, but there is a way to support them — and maybe see them in your own yard — by planting milkweed.
-
With California voters facing a decision on redistricting this November, Surf City is poised to join the brewing battle over Congressional voting districts.
-
The drug dealer, the last of five defendants to plead guilty to federal charges linked to the 'Friends' actor’s death, will face a maximum sentence of 65 years in prison.
Best of LAist