The Not-So-Fatal Death of Grandpa Fredo

You can accuse Vox Motus of a few things, but lack of ambition is not one of them.

Their past few productions have played with high concepts and extravagant theatricality, sometimes sidestepping character and plot for impressive eye candy, but there has always been a driving ambition to surprise and impress the audience.

This production is no different. It is an over-the-top, live-action cartoon that relishes theatricality and will do nearly anything to please.

The plot involves an American small town’s attempt to grow financially while keeping the peace, and what happens when that peace gets shaken by someone who decides to start a cryonics business. And yes, as suggested by the programme notes, an internet search shows that a large chunk of the play is based on real events.

Half the fun is to see what trick directors Candice Edwards and Jamie Harrison have up their sleeves next. Sets turn and open up, lights and props are played with and film is projected, all to wonderful effect. The cast of four are also game for anything, including singing songs and playing multiple characters.

Yes, the plot and characters sometimes take a backseat to the action. Sure, the story sometimes gets lost in the details, and a better dramaturgical job could have been done for clarity. And fine, some of the gags don’t work as well as they should have and at times distract the cast.

So what? The production wears its heart on its sleeve, and everyone involved is obviously having a good time. Besides, after 80 minutes of shenanigans, the play concludes with a scene that starts with a set change that garnered applause and a final moment that earned sighs of affection and tenderness from the audience. What more can you ask for?