The Tolucan Times weighs in on "Kidnapped by Craigslist"

Kidnapped by Craigslist

By M. Jarrett Christensen on December 17,2008

The phenomenon that is Craigslist has permeated every avenue of our society. It is imbued into our consciousness, as it is a projection of our hopes and fears, wants and desires. It has become the quintessential forum for all things, be it a sale of furniture to an instantaneous date, or even a political soapbox. Katie Goan & Nitra Gutierrez has captured all the fascinating elements in this amusing and handsome production.

The show is a compilation of actual postings from Craigslist, as it is a series of vignettes that make up the act. The staging is simple but spectacular, as it embodies that of a big top circus with all its comedy and drama, and yes, even the freak show. We are introduced into the cyber world by the confessions, wants and announcements. The actors portray the voices of the ads with the same honesty and seriousness that the actual ad had intended. What prevails is a delightful comedy that allows for belly laughs and at the same time, sympathy and pathos for the real persons who submitted their words online.

All the performers were outstanding. Some of the standouts include Addi Gaash, Amy Motta and Danny Lopes. Matt Maenpaa (set design) and Lori Evans Taylor (sound design) prove how ingenuity and resourcefulness gives the audience a glamorous stage. It is said that comedy is an ironic reversal of tragedy. If it were not for all the laughter involved, one could sense the pity in these ads that continually crowd cyberspace. Highly recommended.

The Elephant Lab Theatre is located at 6322 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90038. For tickets, call (323) 860-8786 or visit www.TheSpyAnts.com. “Kidnapped by Craigslist” is playing through December 20 with extended dates January 2–24 2009.