There's no artistry in that!

For the past couple of months, I've been rehearsing for my (small-ish) part(s) in a play with Mercury Players Theatre. This week was tech and final dress, and we're opening the show tonight--so needless to say, I'm exhausted. I've been at the theatre until anywhere between 11:30 and 1:00AM every night since Monday. Despite my general malaise and sleepiness, though, it has definitely been worth it. This is one of the finest casts I've yet to work with, and the play itself is mighty entertaining.

That's why I'm about to shill for it. Seriously, you should come see this show.

"Compleat Female Stage Beauty," written by Jeffrey Hatcher, tells the true story of Edward Kynaston, a Shakespearean actor who specialized in playing female roles, and how his world is turned upside down when King Charles II, in his fit of Restoration, allowed women onto the stage. The show is hilarious and a bit bawdy, but also deeply felt and nuanced. It involves everything from love, scandal, obscenity and cross-dressing to brief nudity and serious personal reflection.

Plus, you'll get to see me playing both a man and a woman. And wearing a positively ridiculous wig. What's not to love?

If you're still not convinced, perhaps these bits of PR will help:

• Awesome Rob Matsushita-produced trailer, created from video of rehearsals
• Fantastic photos of the show by Colm McCarthy
• Official press release type thing

There. Now reserve yourself some tickets and come see us.