It's part three-ring circus, part college lecture and part behind-the-scenes sneak peak. This show is definitely not a play, and it's certainly not a typical night at the theater.
The Gamm Theatre's limited engagement of A Night at the Fights will keep you on the egde of your seat with spectacle. Filled with danger, laughs and information, you'll be entertained and educated.
The point of the show is simple: display excerpts of staged fights and then explain how their done. It's all an illusion based on perspective, and no one really gets hurt, explains Normand Beauregard, the Gamm's resident fight master. The show is kind of like a compilation of the best fight scenes from epics like Hamlet and Macbeth.
Brothers Jim and Normand Beauregard, along with friend Paul "PK" Kochanek, put on an impressive display of physical agility and ability. Their technique is obvious, and though the action gets close to the audience at points (I questioned my choice to sit in the front row a few times), the "danger" you feel is always strictly under control.
The three men tackle hand to hand, quarter staff, broad sword, rapier and dagger and single blade fighting techniques. There's even a discussion about projectile weaponry, like guns and crossbows. Though these aren't used in a full-on fight, there are some shots fired, so beware if you're easily startled or sensitive to loud noise.
Before intermission and towrads the end of the program, there are some fun expositions of the men's additional skills like juggling and axe throwing. These guys are the real deal: true theatrical professionals who know how to put on a good show.
So, if you're an avid theater goer who has always wondered how those fights you see are done, or if you just want to see sparks fly at the clash of broad swords and men flip while throwing punches, this show is for you.
A Night at the Fights: Tricks of the Trade Revealed runs until March 13 only! Hurry and get your tickets to this by calling 732-4266 or visiting www.gammtheatre.org. This show takes place nextdoor to the Gamm stage at the Pawtucket Armory Drill Hall (the perfect setting, might I add), 172 Exchange Street, Pawtucket, RI.
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