The best thing about The Mammals shows is that they’re distinctive; the spooky tension, dark laughs and heartbreaking trauma let you know whose show you’re watching. Bob Fisher’s phantasmagoric sensibility makes a unique mark on the theater scene; few companies can claim that.
“The Meatlocker” is no different. A down-and-out fighter (Dave Goss) is haunted by the ghost of an ex-mentor (Adam Dodds) who warns him that if he goes down for the count, he’ll never get up. When approached to take a dive the fighter declines, to perilous consequences.
The cast is up to the task. Goss’ doomed struggle tugs at the heart; Dodds is the very picture of an eternal tormentor. Roy Gonzalez’ oily bookie makes you want to shower and Vinny Lacey’s sportscaster steals the scene every time he opens his mouth. Their basement space is perfect for this nightmare, a bleak cocoon for the unthinkable. (Lisa Buscani)
The Mammals at Zoo Studio, 4001 N. Ravenswood, Suite B1, (866)593-4614, through May 14.
Not Without A Fight: A Review of "Relentless" at TimeLine Theatre Though the characters in "Relentless" are educated and well-to-do, they are far from reserved in world view—their rage seethes, hidden only by the comfort of their surroundings and the decorum of their lives.
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