Three Stooges . . . and Then Some!

by Flower City Vaudeville

Review by Jessica Braham

The winners of the 2015 Ithaca Fringe Andrew M. Dixon Award, Flower City Vaudeville, are back and better than ever! The story goes like this: Three vaudevillians have arrived in town to premiere their new show and can't wait to show off their talents. But there is a complication, and the jugglers, musicians, and magicians must add another skill to their resumes—hitchhiking—if they're to make it to the show on time!

The characters and their relationships are enjoyable and entertaining as they move from setup to setup with impeccable timing and a “show must go on...whatever” fortitude. Like the Three Stooges, the de facto leader of the group, Ted Baumhauer, exudes a “Moe-ish”charisma and keeps the show moving forward with brassy comments and head-shaking puns. All three (the “Curly” of the bunch, Richard Hughson, and Ward “Larry?” Hartenstein) conquer a series of truly difficult and hilarious stunts with endearing yet clumsy aplomb.

The magic continues as these brilliant comedians transform their show at the last minute with props from their local janitor. They convert rings of fires to hula hoops, turn harpsichords into children's pianos and pennywhistles, and use tightropes to create tightly wound hammocks. I heard audience members say, “I saw them last year, and they're even better this year!”

A Night in Towanda is an overall fun experience that dares to challenge the traditional use of magic and street performance. The talented trio will not disappoint--this comedy is a must-see for families, and indeed for all ages!