Comedian George Carlin regularly disclosed “the seven words they won’t let you say on television” and civilization did not crumble.  Thanks to Andrew Byrne we now know every other naughty word in the English language.

Mock Your World” s a free-spirited look at the aspirations and frustrations of performing artists in New York City.  Directed by Amy Rogers, with words and music by Byrne, it offers some melodies that are familiar, although the lyrics are not.  Cast members – Marya Grandy, Chuck Ragsdale, Lisa Rothauser and Bart Shatto – have plenty of theater experience and it shows.

Among the best numbers is “Mommy Is a Rock Star” a delightful turn by Grandy as a bored housewife who cranks up the old karaoke machine and rocks. Grandy’s persona recalls one of the great musical comedy stars – Kaye Ballard. “White Audra,” is a masterly parody of Audra McDonald.  As performed by Rothauser, there’s more than a trace of Tina Turner and Aretha Franklin in Audra. Her comedic skills are especially evident in “Save the Best for Last,” playing a woman who’s determined to slow down her boyfriend’s sexual journey to its inevitable end.

Ragsdale and Shatto have strong singing and acting abilities and convey a lot with raised eyebrows and smirks.  With presence and timing, they mine the material for every ounce of laughter.  Byrne and Rogers have created a thoroughly entertaining revue which may just get them to Off-Broadway.

Jerry Osterberg
Cabaret Scenes
February 7 2011
www.cabaretscenes.org