THE BIRTH, ADOPTION AND DEATH OF DOROTHY DUTCHESS
nytheatre.com review by Jayne Napier
August 15, 2003
An extremely talented cast has committed 100
percent to some of the most clever, stylized, and sophomoric material
I’ve ever seen. The Birth, Adoption and Death of Dorothy Dutchess,
written by Brian Silliman, takes no prisoners. The energy of this
production starts at a ten and maintains its high-octane perverse
circus-like momentum for the duration of its 1 hour and 40 minute run.The title of the show tells you what the show is about, but don’t think for a second that it’s that simple. Lines like "Jesus hates a pussy!" and "Shut up you fat bitch!" (said to a pregnant woman) give you some idea of how unapologetically politically incorrect this show is. I’m quite certain that the lack of intermission is to keep people from walking out should they find the language and subject matter too shocking, but don’t misunderstand me, this is solid storytelling with a clear beginning, middle and end. But wait there’s more. The hijinks involved in The Birth, Adoption and Death… include: a slide whistle, pratfalls, lesbian sex, plot twists, murder, a solid toe-tapping musical closing, AND it has a message…sort of. It’s got it all, so definitely see it, but hold on, because it’s a jarring ride.
