In what was billed as Thunder River Theatre Company’s (TRTC) final celebration of 2023, with performances on Dec. 29-30, “House of Venus” was like stepping through a portal into another time and place — maybe it was a spirited cabaret in 1930s New Orleans — like we had entered the divine goddess’ residence.
Before the show began, the audience was captivated by aerialists suspended high above, embodying the ethereal quality of winged goddesses taking flight, with one celestial performer descending on an ornately carved crescent moon of wood.
Theatergoers also had the opportunity to visit with tarot card readers, fortune tellers and crystal ball gazers for a sneak peek at what might be in store for them in 2024.
The in-the-round center stage setup fostered a sense of engagement and intimacy for audience members. The vintage costuming was tastefully seductive and impeccable, with feather boas, bejeweled headdresses, glamorous gowns and elbow-length gloves.
The festivities began with a greeting from hostess Madame Ambrosia (Nina Gabianelli), who encouraged everyone to focus on “something bigger than the physical world we live in” and to relax, engage and let imagination take the lead throughout the evening’s performances.
Magician Professor Phelyx, in his tailored suit and round spectacles, performed at various intervals, asking audience members to participate in illusions that included card tricks, bending (and later straightening) a fork with no effort and naming objects held over his head while blindfolded (by thick coins, gaffing tape and sheet metal goggles).
The act was as much comedy as magic, with the professor engaging the audience in witty banter. As one who has always been bewildered and amazed by magic tricks, his performance was skillfully executed, and just good ol’ fun.
As often as I’ve seen Sopris Soarers aerial silk artists Carrie Vickers and Stacy Everson (cast as Lady Charisma and Soaring Scarlette, respectively) perform around town, I am always amazed at their strength and grace.
Burlesque artist Gale Storm (Allison Gale) performed a top-only striptease, once while navigating a trapeze and the other time on stilts. Both acts were choreographed to unveil literal and figurative layers through storytelling, with just the right balance of humor and refinement.
In an evening filled with laughter and spectacle, what was most striking to me were the quiet moments when Lady Midnight, portrayed by Elissa Stark-Gorman, delivered her spoken word performances.
At this end-of-year celebration, Stark-Gorman expressed the gentle nature of Venus through poetry, reminding us that the goddess of love, beauty and fertility also serves as a muse for writers of all ilks.
Overall, “House of Venus” was a delightful way to end 2023. I already look forward to what TRTC might have for their 2024 celebration.