The Stranger’s David Schmader is known to its readers as the writer of the weekly “Last Days” column. He’s also known in cinematic circles as THE expert on all things “Showgirls” related; he’s been riffing on and commenting on that “Bad Movie We Love” for the last decade and even appears on the DVD as a commentary track. But, he’s also known for his theater work, and his major work to date, is the solo piece “Straight: A Conversion Comedy” which he’s performed at theaters across the country and filmed for DVD release. It’s been awhile since Mr Schmader has done the piece and he has a big gig coming up in Texas so he’s “warming up” with two shows in Seattle this weekend, tonight, November 13 at 8pm and Sunday, November 14 at 7pm at Richard Hugo House, 1634 11th Avenue, across from Cal Anderson Park on Capitol Hill.
But, what’s “Straight” all about? I’ll let Mr Schmader fill you in, (or whoever wrote his press release):
Seattle writer and performer David Schmader explores the world of conversion therapy, the psychological and spiritual procedure by which homosexuals are reputedly made “straight.” With characteristic wit and intelligence, Schmader plunges into the heart of this highly charged territory—attending sessions with a German psychoanalyst, going undercover at “ex-gay” support groups and engaging in an intensive crash course in heterosexuality deep in the heart of Texas. Concurrently, Schmader casts an equally critical eye on the gay community, whose limitations at times seem to rival those of the conversionists. Throughout, Schmader blends an essayist’s insight with the spark of stand-up comedy to face difficult questions, avoid easy answers and get to the bottom of just what it means to be “straight.”
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| Mr Schmader and Friend. |
It’s a funny, witty, thoughtful show with some sharp writing and insight into the whole Conversion movement and Mr Schmader gives a captivating and highly entertaining performance.
It’s well worth checking out.
– Michael Strangeways
