The Buzz-O-Meter

Theatre
National Best of No Shame • Piccolo Spoleto

$12 evening, $10 matinees
June 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 10, 11, 12 at 9:30 p.m.
June 4, 5, 11, 12 at 3:30 p.m.
(1 hr. 30 min.)
Theatre 220
Simons Center for the Arts
54 St. Philip St.
554-6060

What is it? Unlike last year’s incarnation — essentially an open-mic night for local actors and writers interspersed with some pieces from the No Shame’s considerable vaults — this year’s programming will rely much more heavily on the strongest pieces performed in the past at No Shame chapters from around the country. Instead of relying on whatever performers just happened to be sitting around, a majority of the work this year will be performed by actors coming down from Virginia.

Why see it? This is the same theatre movement that launched the careers of such notables as Camryn Manheim of The Practice, John Leguizamo (Freak, Ice Age), and Toby Huss (Carnivale).

Who should go? People wanting their theatre a little ragged with a side of tension.

—Bill Davis

* (1 star)

Buzz: Tough one to call, since it can either soar or suck hardcore. Usually the easiest ticket in the festival, it's a great way to wind down after a day of “serious” art.