by Marcus Kaye-

It is no wonder that The Mystery of Irma Vep, as performed by Deconstructed Productions, is being mounted for the second time in a year. Directed by and starring Michael Lorre with Kevin Remington, The Mystery of Irma Vep, is one of those rare theatrical experience that is so utterly fantastic that one would be completely remiss to skip out on seeing it. The show is a hysterical, campy ride through Gothic mansions, marital drama and of course- the supernatural.

Deconstructed Productions’ mission statement is to find a play, it’s essence, and deliver simply that to the audience. With limited sets and props, more attention is spent on the performances and story, and The Mystery of Irma Vep is no exception. Wonderfully acted, the play tells the story of Lady Enid (Lorre), the new bride of Lord Edgar (Remington) and a new resident of Hillcrest Manor. Strange things are happening, however, as Lady Enid begins to piece together what exactly happened to Lord Edgar’s first wife, Irma Vep. With the help of the maid Jane (Remington) and Nicodemus the stable hand (Lorre), Lady Enid unearths tales of werewolves, vampires and mummies- all of which make an appearance in The Mystery of Irma Vep.

This is not to say that the play is without a set entirely. The set, designed by Michael Lorre, covered in chalkboard paint and hand drawn, is simple but effective. Sconces and coat hangers are drawn, and then made to look three dimensional and real by light and prop combinations.

Lighting Design by Chris Wojcieszyn was truly magical. Because of the minimalistic style of the show there are few props. The does not mean, however, that there is a lack of prop suggestion. Made possible by brilliant lighting design, things like imaginary candles and closing curtains are incredibly believable. So while Michael Lorre as Lady Enid might not have been actually holding a candle, the flicker of light illuminated across his chest and face made it feel as though he was.

Sound Design (most noticeably the choice of music) by Jason Duplissea created a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack for The Mystery of Irma Vep. Part Hitchcockian, part Victorian and perfectly fitting.

Both Michael Lorre (as Nicodemus and Lady Enid) and Kevin Remington (as Lord Edgar and Jane) are brilliant in their roles. Lorre and Remington have so perfectly captured ’30s acting styles that its difficult to image them outside of the era.  Not only have they mastered one character fully, but many. Their flexibility and ability to differentiate so quickly between characters is inspiring. In one scene they might change characters (and costumes) several times. Often throwing their voices to include their other character as well. The best part is, not once does it feel like one actor playing two roles. Special recognition for Amanda Beck, their dresser, is deserved as she has so mastered their changes that they aren’t offstage for a matter of seconds before they’re back on as someone entirely different.

The camp is tastefully done and not overbearing. Often times a show becomes just about the camp, or even worse, forced camp. Not in this performance. Here it comes from their dedication to the ridiculousness of their roles and situations. Lorre and Remington never play for camp, but rather it is simply the result. The enjoyable, fun, don’t you dare miss it, Mystery of Irma Vep.

The Mystery of Irma Vep is performed at Space 916 on Fridays and Saturdays at 8PM and Sunday matinees at 2PM. The show opened on Friday, July 23 and will run through Saturday, September 4.

Space 916 (formerly the WeHo Church Space) is located at 916 North Formosa Ave., in West Hollywood.

Ticket prices: $20.00

Reservations online at www.tinyurl.com/IrmaVep2010 or by phone at (323) 667-1304.