The Maverick Theater doesn’t monkey around with their amazing, live stage, multi-media performance of, ‘King Kong‘ based on the novelization of the 1933 classic.
The Maverick Theater and Staged Cinema Productions dazzled last night’s audience by bring back their celebrated adaptation of the 1933 film ‘King Kong‘, now in its fifth spectacular year! This original stage production, based on Delos W. Lovelace’s novelization of the iconic film, presents the classic story with a few refreshing updates and additions. It is a delightful, tongue-in-cheek experience while enjoying characters brought to life with heartfelt authenticity, including a marvelous ‘King Kong‘ performed by the incredible Miles Taber, who was on a separate sound stage while his co-stars performed on the mainstage and a third stage in front of a a green screen, creating movie magic in real time!
Under the visionary direction of Brian Newell, the Maverick Theater has assembled an extraordinary cast that brings a fresh vibrancy to this timeless tale. Mark Coyan shines as the adventurous Carl Denham, infusing the role with charisma and determination to bring to New York our favorite giant, great ape. Samantha Green impeccable comedic timing had everyone rolling in the aisle as Ann Darrow, portraying her with a blend of elegance and strength causing all primates to fall in love with her performance. Jeff Lowe’s portrayal of Jack Driscoll is both earnest and engaging, complementing the dynamic ensemble.
The talented Glenn Freeze takes on the role of Captain Englehorn genuine concern for his crew as well a the police sergeant who helps our heroes in New York City. In fact, Scott Keister took on duel roles of Weston and the Native Chief, showcasing versatility and great humor, especially with Keister’s line needing to be, ‘tastro‘ yet kept shouting out, ‘Costco‘ instead. Donny Van Horn also doubles up as Jimmy and Mabel are executed with pure flair. Myles Hall’s Stoowee, and John Castro’s portrayal of the Witchdoctor had us all in stitches.
The Maverick Light & Magic marveled last night’s audience with their innovative live compositing techniques, merging video sources to create the illusion of Kong’s grandeur. This process, reminiscent of Willis O’Brien’s pioneering work, delivered a visual spectacle like no other, especially when after the performance we were able to go to the model set to see how the magic was made, similar to the old Universal Studios Tour.
Suitable for ages 6 and up, this enchanting production of ‘King Kong‘ runs from July 26th through August 25th, with performances on Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are priced at $30 for general admission and $15 for students with a current I.D. and can be purchased online at www.mavericktheater.com or by calling 714-526-7070.
The Maverick Theater is located at:
110 E. Walnut
Fullerton, CA 92832
Summary
The Maverick Theater’s ‘King Kong‘ has audiences going bananas for this based on 1933 classic film. They don’t monkey around with it comes to a phenomenal performance, but sure went ape for it!