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Wild Women of Planet Wongo
By: Dana Jacoviello
New York City is the theatre capital of the world. We are known for our Broadway shows and the elegance and grace that comes with outstanding live performances like no other city. What many are not aware of is how fun our off Broadway hidden gems are as well.
One show that I had the pleasure of seeing recently at NYC’s Parkside Lounge was Wild Women of Planet Wongo. It is written by Ben Budick, Steve Mackes and Dave Ogrin, and directed by David Rigano with choreography by Juson Williams. It was a fun, whimsical, funny and interactive show that most do not get to experience when at the theatre.
Wild Women of Planet Wongo is a corky 60’s B-movie inspired sci-fi musical comedy about two male astronauts that crash land on a planet that is filled with Amazon warrior women that have never seen men. The two astronauts, the somewhat gullible and dim witted Louie LaFever (played by Howie Schaal) and the reluctant and more reliable Ric Rogers (played by Miki Hellerbach), are trying to find their way off the planet by repairing their ship. However, Louie convinces Ric to accept the invitation to stay on the planet by the matriarch of the Amazon women, Queen Rita (played by Amanda Nicholas). All hell breaks loose after that as the women do not have the plans for them that overly aroused Louie believes they do.
The overall standout stars of the show that truly get some laughs out of you and have that sassy attitude are Howie Schaal and Amanda Nicholas. Their musical talent was on point as well. The overall show is a bit predicable and corny in itself, but that is not to say that it doesn’t hold your attention.
The show invites audience members to participate and immerse themselves in the actual show and be a part of fun two ten-minute intermissions of games and challenges for prizes. I was not sure how I first perceived it when I saw it was in the back of a bar, but it was a very comfortable and welcoming setting. It is not designed for too many people so there is not that feeling of being overcrowded. There is moving around throughout the show so keep that in mind yet this is part of what makes this show unique and exciting for most. It can be a bit tiresome after a while of trying to figure out where to stand or go because you keep feeling as if you are in the way of others, but it is also so insane that it makes you laugh.
The backdrop to the performance was very simple. There was a one seat on the spaceship on the stage and surrounding televisions for the audience to watch. The televisions are basically the backdrop for the planet they land on, as the screen are filled with old fashioned screen shots of 1960s images. It is definitely not your normal theatre set. It was more of a focus on the actors utilizing their surroundings and imagination than anything. Though not many props were used, what was utilized was brought in and out from the back. The use of flat screen televisions made for an interesting approach to emulate a background setting, but you are forced to use your imagination, which is what theatre is all about – getting lost in the moment.
If you are looking for fancy or engaging, this is not for you. This is for those who enjoy having a few drinks while enjoying a more relaxed, off the wall and wild experience.
The cast included Sage Buchalter, Aiesha Dukes, Maya Evans, Miki Hellerback, Jenna Marcello, Amanda Nicholas, Howie Schaal and Peyton Reilly – all of which possess descent comedic talent. The zingers were playful and delightful.
Bring a friend and enjoy a night of unexpected thrills. I recommend it for those who are sci-fi junkies and enjoy craziness. There is an appreciation for the overall zaniness. It is on a hiatus currently, but it will be back by popular demand beginning April 6th, 2017 through June 16th, 2017.
The cast is going through some replacements, but it will be back just the same. The name says it all. Let loose, have a couple drinks and go out for a fun night of zany humor and good company with Wild Women of Planet Wongo!
Book tickets and learn more about Wild Women of Planet Wongo:
www.facebook.com/wildwomenofplanetwongo
www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQVuojiKTdw
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