Leo @ the Clurman Theater

I went to see LEO by Circle of Eleven, last  (written Wednesday 1/31/12) night at the Clurman Theater on theater row. It sounded exciting, innovative, orginal, and the New York Times even gave it a rave review.

I must point out that there was an overzealous middle aged woman sitting behind me, who loved Leo a little too much and didn’t mind sharing it. This was not her first time seeing Leo and every time he started a new bit she would exclaim with glee to her neighbor, in a loud whisper, “watch this part!” Like her companion wasn't already watching the show. Then during the part when Leo made chalk drawings on the wall the lady started to call out each thing he drew, “kitty”, “fish”, “table,” like she was translating for the blind. Was she Leo’s mother? I hope so.

Leo's schtick got old quick, the hour felt like two, the story was so sparse I don’t know why they bothered, and seeing him in reality juxaposed with him on a screen fliped over, was just disconcerting.  Didn’t know which one to look. Plus unless you are seated in the dead center it is hard to look at both things at the same time and it gets tiring trying too. Maybe I missed something deep and profound about Leo, or maybe that lady was so annoying she turned me off to the show. Whatever the case may be, I didn't like Leo.

"Bird!"