Share This:
January 29, 2013 | What Did You Think?,
What did you think of THE SERVANT OF TWO MASTERS?
Did you enjoy the revitalized commedia dell’arte style of the classic Goldoni text? Let us know what you thought about The Servant of Two Masters by commenting here.
What a fun production! We loved the rollicking pace and the local references (take that Sister Act). Steven Epps did a great job, as did the rest of the cast.
It’s a lot of fun. The actors are definitely enjoying themselves. Good music and very fine singing were an unexpected bonus. I’m glad to have some idea of what commedia dell’arte was like “back when.” Thanks to the troupe for o good time in the theater.
One suggestion for a local reference gag: put the name Beethoven (in caps) on the medallion at the top of the proscenium.
Very disappointed in the sound quality. Used (my wife & I), hearing assisted devices. We heard the accordion the best, + the laughter of the accordionist. We were sitting row D balcony, center. Missed much of the dialogue, and therefore the jokes. The actors wearing masks did not help at all. We saw “One man 2 guv’nors” on Broadway last year. Understood that much better, and, never laughed so hard. Possibly your production was that funny too. Certainly, lots of the audience was laughing (as well as the accordionist).
We both remember having trouble with the dialogue in “Merchant of Venice” as well. Perhaps it is the acoustics of the Paramount
Perhaps you will find this helpful. Certainly, turning down the microphone of the instrumentalists is pretty easy. Maybe removal of masks would help. Do not think that would seriously impair the performance, and could aid in clearer speaking. Thank you.
Mike Schatz
My 14 year old daughter and I had a terrific time and loved the show. I highly recommend it. The theatre itself is beautiful, and the house staff are very helpful. Hint: the ladies room on the mezzanine level was *never* crowded.
A rollicking, fast-paced, clever update of Commedia Dell Arte at its best. Don’t miss this brilliant evening of theater.
What a delightful play in the spirit of Shakesperian farce. The inclusion of Boston currency was wonderful. A genuine gem!
The cast and production were excellent — antic and unflaggingly energetic and awfully well done, way over the top commedia — just what the Yale Rep gave us 30+ years ago when we lived in New Haven (and Rob Orchard was there). My only beef is the over-amplification of pre-show music and miking of actors. When did actors/singers stop being able to be heard in a house the size of the Rep or the Paramount? Otherwise, a great evening’s entertainment!
The funniest show I have EVER seen! We laughed for an hour & 1/2. I hope I get to see it again.
We are “theater addicts” – at least 2 shows a month. My wife was reluctant since she had never heard of this show. I am game for just about anything. Four of us went and we never stopped laughing. Truffaldino creeping off stage pulling his pants away from his butt had my wife almost fall out of her seat. She was convinced, it was FUNNY! I also enjoyed the talk back after Sunday’s show. I learned a lot about Commedia Dell Arte and saw the influence on some of my favorite comedy teams. I highly recommend. Go see, you won’t be disappointed.
The show was a brilliant blend of improvisation, and perfectly choreographed physical humor. I laughed so hard my sides hurt, and in the end I was left feeling open, happy, and grateful for all of the joy we can experience. It would be a real blunder to miss this one. Arts Emerson brought a truly uplifting show to the Boston community!
The funniest show I’ve seen in years, and the best version of The Servant of Two Masters I’ve seen (take that, ART). Brilliant acting and music. Timing is everything, and these actors had all the moves and gestures, all the expressions, all the camp perfectly timed. Wish everyone could see it for a great night at the theatre.
I thought it was hilariously funny, inventive, playful, and even sweet. The jokes and wordplay flew nonstop, and the physical clowning was neatly choreographed. We liked it so much we are coming back tonight – with reinforcements!
The cast enjoyed themselves and the audience enjoyed watching them preform some very funny stuff! Great preformance would see it again. Everyone in the cast was fun and talented! 🙂