A Six Letter Word and a Four Letter Band

Looking for unique entertainment? Want to experience something a little to the left of main-stream? Here are two productions that sure fit the bill.

The first has been a hit across the U.S., as well as overseas. It's caused a lot of commotion, a bit of controversy, and raised many eyebrows. What is capable of all this? "The Vagina Monologues." Most people don't even like to speak the second word of this title out loud, but the actresses that perform on stage every night have no problem whatsoever. In fact, they say it so often, that initial feeling of panic that causes you to look around and see if anybody else has heard, quickly fades away.

This is not a show for those that are easily offended, nor is it for children. There is quite a bit of language that left me unsure if I'd recommend it to my mother or not. But if your ears don't need censorship - go see the Monologues. It will reach you on a level that is not usually touched in a live production.

Every three weeks, the cast changes, an usual factor by itself. In fact, at the time that I purchased tickets, they did not even know who would be performing. Luckily, I knew and liked all three actresses on my night: Jasmine Guy, Rue McClanahan and Joan Van Ark. They each brought their own special personality to the stage and yet worked wonderfully as a team. For those of you who are not sure what to expect, I'm not going to give it all away. But by its title, it should be just a series of monologues - no acting. However, that's not entirely the case. Although they never get out of their chairs, they definitely did act - and very well. As each monologue reflects another character, voices and tones change, and you can clearly visualize exactly who's supposed to be speaking.

Men, you may be wondering what your place is here. I'll tell you, as a man, you may not catch every truism that is suggested, and you obviously won't have the exact same experiences to compare to; but you will enjoy the evening, and you may even learn something new about the opposite gender. Gut-wrenching, hurts-your-belly laughter was heard throughout the cozy theater on several occasions by everyone, not just women.

Perhaps for such a "questionable" show you don't wish to purchase $50 tickets, fine. You don't need to. The last two rows of the Canon Theatre in Beverly Hills, sell for only $25 a ticket, and that's all you need. The room is sized to the point that no matter where you sit, you can see perfectly. Why spend another $25? The only reason would be if you couldn't find a night where the $25 seats hadn't been sold out. As there are only two rows of the lesser price, you may have to buy months in advance, as I did. And of course by doing that, you don't get to choose which performers you will see; however, I'm sure anyone involved with this production will be great. It's a thoroughly different kind of evening, but I'm sure it'll be one that you'll remember for quite some time.

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