In a world of costumed heroes and mad scientists, one villain stands head and shoulders above the rest, and his latest wicked scheme threatens to destroy the entire world. Only one man can stop him, if he would just show up already.
In this single-scene play, Doctor Devious (Phil Krusto) and his hostage, plucky reporter Jane Jocelyn (Concetta Roche) waiting for the world’s greatest superhero (Kyle Billie) to stage an overdue rescue. Quickly, Jane reveals that she is no damsel in distress, and Devious learns that he doesn’t need anybody’s help to foil his own plans.
Gregory Cruikshank, the playwright, wears his influences on his sleeve, sprinkling the dialogue with references to the big names of classic comics and lovingly crafting a scenario that wouldn’t be out of place in a silver-age superman comic before turning it on its head and watching the pieces come tumbling down.
Phil Krusto is a shining gem as the titular Sheer Criminal Genius™ (don’t forget the trademark!), screeching and chewing the scenery in proper cartoon villain fashion, bringing to mind the performances of Cesar Romero and Mark Hamill’s turns at The Joker more than the modern brooding portrayals. Every new setback sends the mad doctor further and further over the edge, leaving the audience wondering if he can possibly emote any more and delightfully surprised every time.
As befitting a cartoon, kid are encouraged to attend with a half-off discount for children under 12, but Sheer Criminal Genius™ – A Cartoon is truly a delight for all ages.
Location: The Zoetic – 526 Concession St, Hamilton
Show Times:
Thursday 19 July @ 7:30pm
Friday 20 July @ 9:30pm
Saturday 21 July @ 4:30pm
Sunday 22 July @ 1:30pm
Wednesday 25 July @ 7:30pm
Friday 27 July @ 11pm
Saturday 28 July @ 7:30pm
Tickets: $10 for Adults, $5 for Children under 12. (Fringe Backer Button Required)
