Edward Gant's Amazing Feats of Loneliness!

Playwright Anthony Neilson crafts a beautifully complex story of love, ambition and solitude in Edward Gant's Amazing Feats of Loneliness! The titular character is a ringmaster of sorts, and his band of traveling performers regales us with stories of romance and heartache, intertwined with clever bits of vaudeville. A different backdrop accompanies each tale, and stagehands add humor to the proceedings with gentle mugging, even acting as props when needed. As Gant, the handlebar-mustached Ian Hopps keeps the audience engaged with a monologue that never drags or grows stale. There’s fine chemistry between cast members, plus tight comic timing. The action culminates in a heartfelt debate between Gant and Nicky Ludd (Serra Naiman), rounded out by a great surprise ending. (Visit fringenyc.org for more information.)—Dennis Roberson