The mainstage season at Bristol Riverside Theatre (120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, PA 19007) kicks off with the iconic Charles Ludlam comedy-camp-suspense-satire play The Mystery of Irma Vep. The title is a nod to the 1915 French movie serial Les Vampires. Ludlam’s cult classic premieres on the BRT mainstage October 3 to 22. During this two-hour supernatural journey, the sensational two-man cast of Chris French and Charles Osborne transforms through eight characters: male, female, human, and werewolf.
The B-horror mystery, originally produced by Ludlam's Ridiculous Theatrical Company, opened off-Broadway in New York City's Greenwich Village in autumn 1984. The production featured Ludlam himself as ‘Lady Enid’ and his partner, Everett Quinton, as ‘Lord Edgar Hillcrest.’ After winning the 1985 Obie Award, the show went on to become the country’s most-produced play in 1991. Less frequently performed now, the show, with its 35 wildly quick costume changes, numerous special effects, and tongue-in-cheek adult humor, celebrates the horror genre and the subversively ironic quality of the multi-character two-man cast.
The show begins with Lovelorn Egyptologist Lord Edgar (French), master of the Mandacrest Estate, searching for answers to a ‘biting’ question involving his second wife, Enid (Osborne), victim of a savage vampire attack, and the ferocious canine murderer of his first wife and son. House staff, maid Jane Twisden (French), and swineherd Nicodemus Underwood (Osborne) argue the merits and shortcomings of the master’s new wife as compared to his lost love, Irma Vep (??), who is the mysterious focus of an elaborate shrine at the estate. Edgar’s quest for answers leads him to the sarcophagus of an Egyptian princess of unexpected identity and, even more shocking, the chaos that ensues from her release. With seamless character transitions and, in fact, ‘bleeding’ props, the characters twist and turn through a journey of snarky subversive humor, closing with a ‘climactic’ reveal.
“The Mystery of Irma Vep reunites two virtuosic actors that we’re so excited to have back on our stage.” Said Amy Kaissar. “Audiences will remember Chris French, who played Cliff in the recent production of Cabaret, and Charles Osbourne as Gene Kelly in What a Glorious Feeling. The Mystery of Irma Vep gives these incredibly talented actors a chance to flex their muscles and show off their comedic genius. It’s really the perfect vehicle for their brand of hilarious.”
BRT’s productions offer special pre- and post-show engagements, included with the ticket price, for guests to create a special night out. The October 5 opening performance is followed by a catered reception where patrons can revel over the night’s show. Friday Festival features pasta provided by Cesare’s Ristorante and drinks courtesy of Dad’s Hat and Pat Deon Beverages on October 6. ‘Wine Down ‘midweek on October 11 with complimentary wine from Chaddsford Winery Lahaska and desserts. Enjoy ‘Thirsty Thursday’ on October 19 with beer and snacks courtesy of Bitchin’ Kitten Brewing, Dog & Bull Brew & Music House, Naked Brewing Co., and Philly Style Soft Pretzel.
Tickets for The Mystery of Irma Vep are available online at www.brtstage.org or by calling 215-785-0100.
About Bristol Riverside Theatre:
Since 1986, Bristol Riverside Theatre (BRT) has continued to bring acclaimed theatre to Bucks County. The theatre is the recipient of over 71 Barrymore Award nominations. Now under the direction of Producing Directors Amy and Ken Kaissar and General Manager Megan Jones, the theatre serves as a cultural hub for the community. In addition to its mainstage productions, BRT offers the William Penn Bank Summer Music Fest, the new play development series, America Rising, the summer theatre arts camp ArtRageous, and a range of education programs for local youth. For information, visit www.brtstage.org.