The Coen Brothers have a knack for creating films that an audience will want to see again and again, not just for the clever one-liners, but to witness their venerable cast of characters acting so frustratingly human. Consequently, when I heard that Show at Barre was staging a Coen Brothers-themed cabaret at Barre Vt in Hollywood, I jumped at the opportunity to relive the signature songs and scenes from some of their finest films.
“For the Record: Coen Brothers” draws upon the talents of a rotating ensemble of television and Broadway actors including Rogelio Douglas Jr. (“In The Heights, “The Little Mermaid”), Kristolyn Lloyd (“The Bold and the Beautiful”), Darrly Semira (“Mamma Mia!) and Ginifer King (“Gypsy,” “Steele Magnolias”). While performing songs from hit Cohen Brothers’ films, the cast is anything but introverted — expect them to dance on top of the bar, weave in and out of the audience and belt their hearts out inches away from your table.
One of the funniest moments of the show took place during a dream sequence from “The Big Lebowski.” The actors, dressed in Viking hats and waving bowling pins, suddenly appeared outside of the venue’s front window, dancing not only for us but also for a few unsuspecting pedestrians. Other highlights of the show included songs from “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” and “The Hudsucker Proxy” as well as scenes from the Coen Brothers’ darker films, “Fargo” and “Burn After Reading.”
Through Sept. 24, performances start at 9 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays, but those who want to make the most out of the evening should arrive early for dinner and preferred seating, which is on a first-come, first-served basis. Menu items, such as Wagyu ribeye or goat cheese and truffle ravioli, are reasonably priced, and a number of Coen-themed cocktails add a festive layer the experience.
Tickets to “For the Record: Coen Brothers” are $25 each, and a two-drink minimum applies. Advance purchase is strongly recommended.
The Details
Show At Barre323-661-6163
www.showatbarre.com
