FringeNYC Previews

Dreadful Penny's Exquisite Horrors

Produced by Tantalus Theatre Group NFP

Author: Alexandra Herryman with Ensemble

Dreadful Penny's Exquisite Horrors takes place in the dark, malevolent world of a carnival sideshow that has lived on long after the Carnival has moved on.  The audience will be introduced to the master of ceremonies, Penny herself, and her faithful minions who are drawn to her in the hopes that she will fulfill all of their hopes, dreams and desires.  Some may get want they wish for, but when the fulfillment of their dreams comes with dark and sinister complications, how far will they go to keep hold of what they desire?  In the end, these questions will be answered for all, and for one new-comer in particular, who has come to the show seeking true love.

In dealing with wants and desires, Dreadful Penny touches upon the human condition in a way that is reflected in today's contemporary times, a world where superficial attitudes are presented as valued and necessary to one's livelihood.  It echoes the darkest sides of the American Idol culture, the culture of reality, scripted to distort the senses, and redefine what one should value in life.

The show is both entertaining and compelling as a work set in a world of dark and twisted horror, and manages to present thoughtful, compelling questions on desire in tandem. Just as the characters are driven towards their desires, the audience is allowed to ask the same questions of themselves, and leave the show with new insight into their own drives and desires.

Parrish Morgan, co-director