A cross-dressing, musical version of “Rosemary’s Baby?” Although this may sound a bit odd, the Gold Dust Orphans’ parody of Roman Polanski’s 1968 horror movie is actually one of the funniest pieces of underground theater to come through Boston in quite a while.
The adaptation is fresh, funny and inventive. Ryan Landry’s version of Ira Levin’s best-selling novel features an innocent and homeless Egg that desperately seeks a womb; Bernaise La Flame, a young and lustful witch who manages the “Hell’s Kitchen” diner (nice touch); the eccentric and demonic Mr. and Mrs. Castavette; and, of course, the cross-dressing Rosemary Woodhouse and her porn star husband, Guy.
Directed by James P. Byrne, “Rosemary’s Baby: The Musical!” is hilarious. Charlie Fineran nails the role of Rosemary: his performance is witty, erotic and in-your-face. With her angelic voice, Tiger Lily enthusiastically plays Bernaise La Flame. Landry appears as the humble embryo in search of a mother. Landry’s performance is adorably honest. Byrne and Walter McLean also appear in the production, as Mr. and Mrs. Castavette. Both work well together and successfully create this eccentric and silly couple.
The White Rock Fairy Band is also a featured part of the Gold Dust Orphans’ production. This group is perfect accompaniment to these performers. Gorgeous George is on piano, Nancy Asch is on drums, Blanche Blanchard is on guitar, and J. Johnson is on bass.
From an enormous egg costume adorned with white feathers to Mr. and Mrs. Castavette’s outrageous and bold attire, the costume designs by Fineran, Scott Martino and Landry are a riot. They manage to capture the wit and over-the-top humor of the production in every costume.
Do not miss the opportunity to see a production that represents underground theater at its best. The Gold Dust Orphans and the Glitter Twins have turned the basement of Machine into a functional and intimate performance space that is perfect for this show.
The Gold Dust Orphans’ production of “Rosemary’s Baby: The Musical!” runs through February 16 at Machine, located at 1254 Boylston Street, directly across from Tower Records. Curtain is at 8 PM on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. To inquire about “Rosemary’s Baby: The Musical!” and the Gold Dust Orphans or to reserve tickets, call 617-262-6444.
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