The Wake

Fifteen minutes until show time, I tiptoe through the sliding doors into the dimly lit cabaret. Though there are several seats available on the main floor, I am strangely hypnotized by the red vinyl that adorns the six rows of risers behind them. Unable to resist their allure, I situate myself on level five near the railing. Just as I get comfortable, I feel a curious tug at my pant leg. I look down to discover a petite ponytailed waitress who wonders which of Bryant Lake’s four variations of the Bloody Mary would suit my palate. Fantastic! I opt for the Caesar with Clamato and an anchovy-olive garnish.

The crowd is one part drunken hipster, one part mom and dad, and one part hip-hop junkie. Considering the nature of the show, a diverse crowd is to be expected. This is the debut of the T-Spot, a variety show that mixes comedy, live music, sketches, monologues, improv and dancing in a way that flows like a one-act play. Think “In Living Color” meets “Def Poetry Jam” meets your high school talent show.

Though the event is televised, the atmosphere remains quite casual. Patrons squeeze by the cameraman to satisfy their thirst, hunger and other bodily needs during the performance. The sounds of whispers, squeals, mutters and the word, “supernachos” mesh with my overall aural experience when a group of hungry ladies sits down behind me.

The lights go down, the music comes up, and Dancing Dave takes the stage to whet everyone’s visual appetites with a smooth, sexy, solo performance. Our hostess for the evening, Mysnikol (say it, “Miss Nicole”), begins her introduction with pleas for audience laughter. She encourages the audience to imbibe since “we’re funnier when you’re drunk.” I jingle the melting tomato coated ice cubes in my glass. Way ahead of you, Mysnikol.

T-Spot player Celia then emerges into the proscenium arch as the sexpot acting instructor in the skit “10-Minute Workshop,” which reads a bit like an inside joke—a theater for the theater-enthusiast style comedy also starring T-Spot player Damian as the acting newbie. Participant Brian then delivers his monologue “Audition,” another satirical jab at an actor’s plight. Brian’s investment in the role is obvious; however, due to unfortunate projection or acoustics (and I’m not sure which) the piece is difficult to follow. This is definitely one I’d like to see re-executed. By far the most enjoyable portions of the performance are the group improv sessions. The T-Spot players have a great collective energy, and I especially enjoy Pascha as the drunken funeral mourner. “You’ll always be hot to meee (gurgle). I might just digg yah up…” I must say I do enjoy a good necrophilia joke now and then. Well done.

Musical guest WideEyes regales the crowd with two humble hip-hop performances, “Portray Yourself” and “Dance with the Devil.” The trio, Anthony, SeanAnon, and Brainstorm, seem like very cool cats and have great chemistry with one another. Add couple of extra doses of crowd charisma, and these dudes could have some potential.

Overall, the T-Spot was a nice bit of entertainment for a Thursday evening. This was the group’s first performance, and though it certainly needs a bit of polishing, they have the passion and energy necessary to take this creative venture to the next level.