Painted Bread

Aurora Fox Arts: 1/31 – 2/23

           KAREN SLACK IS FRIDA KAHLO!

     Karen Slack’s performance in the central role of “Painted Bread” makes one feel as if he were in the presence of the artist herself. If ever an actor has channeled the discarnate spirit of a character she is playing Slack does.

     Paul Borrillo is a magnificent Diego. Not just credible in the role, Borrillo portrays Frida’s artist-lover with a larger than life brio that puts one in mind of Kazantzakis’ Zorba..

     Martha Harmon Pardee turns in a performance that is both funny and fine as the guide at the art museum.

     The supporting cast is full of such talent as Dale Li, Ben Cowhick, Kurt Brighton and Rebekah Fernandez.

     Upon entering the auditorium at The Aurora Fox one is regaled with a stunning scenic design, which alludes to numerous art museums. 

     See if you can find representations of such edifices as the Denver Art Museum as well as others. Charles Packard’s work here is quite simply his best. The fluid sweep of the set allows for the magical unfoldment of the story of Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. 

     As directed by Warren Sherill, the piece is cast, paced and framed as a true masterpiece. In fact from time to time frames descend from the proscenium allowing Frida’s self portraits to come to life. 

     Written with style and soulful inspiration by Melissa Lucero McCarl, this evening of theatre is a marvel.

     The technical crew for this production is superb to a man/woman. Lighting by Shannon McKinney, sound by El Armstrong and costumes by Linda Morken provide us with the visual and auditory coloring that make this portrait of Frida Kahlo sing.

Aurora Fox Arts is located at:

9900 E Colfax Ave, Aurora, CO 80215

for tickets call (303) 739-1972 or aurorafoxartscenter.orgMarlowe's Musings