Kevin Kling returns to Seattle with his newest show, Breakin’ Hearts & Takin’ Names. This new show, written and performed by Kling, with Simone Perrin and directed by Braden Abraham, is premiering at the Seattle Repertory Theatre and runs from April 9 to May 10.
I was not familiar with any of Mr. Kling’s work, nor his books, including his 2007 book The Dog Says How, or that he is a regular on NPR’s “All Things Considered”. I had not heard or read about his near-death motorcycle accident in 2001. So my expectations were somewhat small based upon storytelling not being high on my list for an evening of entertainment. The stories are mostly vignettes about all kinds of love told by a master teller of tales.
Master Humorist Kevin KlingMr. Kling comes on stage. The setting is a corner bar (think any run down neighborhood) and he starts unpretentiously telling a story. His storytelling is slow pace and warm but he is very clever. Before you know it, as you listen, he’s reeled you in. You are laughing out loud. I come to realize that you don’t have to be a fan to enjoy this show, and there were many in attendence who have seen all his other shows. And he begins his construction, like a master builder (brick by brick) with his collection of story and song about loving and living.
His assistant builder is the talented Simone Perrin, a composer and singer, and as a team they deliver. Ms Perrin has worked with Mr. Kling on his show How? How? Why? Why? Why? last season at the Seattle Rep. Her voice and accordion playing interweaves enchanting music with the story. Her rendition of “Love Song For A Vampire” and the road song “I know Where I’m Going” will be with me for a while.
Do you want to learn how to speak Minnesotan or hear stories about a father teaching his son about life, in certain kinds of cars? Just a few of the stories Kling shares during his show. The directing establishes a perfect pace that sets the mood for the sharing stories and song throughout the evening; a show that is a short 70 minutes without an intermission. Mr. Kling has a strong following of fans in Seattle who were out in force the night I saw the show. I have to admit, I might be joining their ranks. The show was that good.
Breakin’ Hearts & Takin’ Names plays now through May 10, 2009. Tickets range from $29-$55. Anyone 25 and under may purchase tickets for only $10 for any performance (with ID – call for details). For more information visit www.seattlerep.org.
– Ethel W
