A: Is for Art that is sexsational

On Sunday I went to review an "erotic theater/dance extravaganza" and since I had spent the day before in total decadence, I was on the right path. Entering the Duo Theatre at 62 East 4th Street to see "The Judgement of Paris," I was transported back in time. Slightly Moulin Rouge, the decaying opulence set the mood. Women corseted, stocking with ruffled satin skirts lured you into their world as Seth Numrich in one of his many roles as the MC beguiles you into this acting troupes world. As the house lights dimmed it is like being plunged into Dante's fall as the story of Paris and Helen of Troy unfold. Seth Numrich now Paris, is given a golden apple bestowed upon him by Cupid (Davon Rainey) to either Hera (Laura Careless brilliantly on pointe), Athena (Yeva Glover ala war time Boogie) or the zaftig, Reubenesque Aphrodite (Gioia Marchese) who promises him Helen (Elyssa Dole) despite the fact that she’s already married to Menaleus (Seth Numrich as well). Seen through a series of choreographed vignettes, the tale takes on a contemporary twist. The Greek goddesses become showgirls, then melt into blonde burlesque dancers, while Aphrodite their voluptuous Eastern European madam. I loved the Trojan War sequence, as a slow, pageant of helmeted figures reaching out for each other as if stuck in a nightmare. As the choreographer Austin McCormick has created a world where this story becomes not only relevant, but also dangerously and hypnotically sexy. Mixing burlesque with ballet melting into a bawdy can-can, McCormick proves he is someone to be reckoned with and watched. Gioia Marchese is powerful as Aphrodite who arranges Helen's downfall. She twists, manipulates, while all the time she's a luring devil who makes you seem as if Hell was your own doing. There are times when you are watching a star in the making and the incredible, versatile Seth Numrich who plays all of the male roles, is one of those people. With nothing but a minor costume to separate each character, he manages to give each one the emotionality that makes you care. He is sexy, venerable, tragic and has a passion that leaps off the stage and engrosses the audience. This production is well executed as well. From the lighting by Leigh Allen to the costumes by Olivera Gajic to the set design by Rumiko Ishii, but it is the concept, visualization by Mr. McCormick that makes The Judgment of Paris one seductive and entertaining production.

As it is a limited run, you only have until January 31st to be seduced. Tickets $35.00 Students and Seniors $20.00 and it is worth every cent and that is a F.A.C.T!