‘The Party Clown‘ an original work by Olivia Carter, makes its world premiere at The Larking House Theatre Company in Anaheim CA.
During its world premiere run at The Larking House Theatre Company in Anaheim CA, ‘The Party Clown‘ an original work by Olivia Carter is a powerful artistic expression that I misinterpreted from reading the initial description. I had also made the mistake of reading a colleague’s review from another publication…something I almost never do, but ended up in my social media feed.
The implication from that review made it seem like a bizarre, black comedy where the main character HER (performed by Feyara Bellefleur) intentionally had herself inseminated by a former crush only to intentionally terminate the pregnancy as some sort of sacrifice in protesting the patriarchy. THANK GOD that was not the case, or else I would have left the theatre.
What ‘The Party Clown‘ truly is, is about HER, who throws an abortion party, in a moment of celebration for her first ever adult decision without seeking approval or inclusion from her peers or parents. What seems as an attempt in celebrating the removal of, “just a clump of cells,” becomes a descent into madness where our protagonist must come to terms with an oblivious father, completely uninterested in life outside of his green lounge chair, as his daughter looks for guidance. Along with an emotional abusive, hypocritical mother, HER reflects on those life choices.
‘The Party Clown‘ does not give argument over the political lines regarding in life beginning at conception or exiting the birth canal. It is just a matter of fact to this character’s personal, traumatic experiences, while longing for a human connection with those who were supposed to care for her most: her parents.
Adding to the incredible performance of Bellefleur are Adriana Rodriguez Burciaga who portrayers HER’s mother and Clown 1, Emily Neva Boliver as HER’s loser, high school boyfriend and Clown 2 and James Menke, who plays HER’s father, karate crush turned florist and the Demon Voice. The actors’ interactions capture HER’s emotional shift from party hostess to someone who can no longer stand the silence, allowing intrusive thoughts to invade once she stops talking.
Kylie Baumbusch’s set design for the limited amount of space within the theatre along with Coleman Blue Summer’s direction enhances every moment, bringing Olivia Carter’s script vividly to life. The Larking House Theatre Company is the epidemy of American ingenuity, rolling up your sleeves and creating your own opportunities and ‘The Party Clown‘ is proof positive of doing live theatre their own way.
‘The Party Clown‘ continues its world premiere run at The Larking House Theatre Company from now through Saturday, April 5, 2025.
To purchase tickets for ‘The Party Clown‘ visit: https://www.thelarkinghouse.com/.
Summary
‘The Party Clown‘ is a gripping, thought-provoking play by Olivia Carter that masterfully blends dark humor with raw emotion. It is an emotionally charged exploration of identity, family, and the longing for connection.
