A Thousand Clowns at the Intiman


The play is set during the early 1960s when America was standing at a cultural crossroads. On the one hand, there were the traditional ideas of the nuclear family with 2.5 kids, a picket fence and a reliable station wagon. The challenger to these ideals came in the form of the free-spirited 60's which attempted to turn all conventions on their side. This push-and-pull dynamic is embodied in Murray Burns (played with perfect comedic timing by Matthew Boston). Burns is described as “not being a person, but an experience.” He refuses to find a job, loves randomly yelling out his apartment window, but also summons enough responsibility to raise his parentless nephew. 

There are some very serious and thought-provoking themes regarding individuality versus public responsibility, but the play addresses these issues with humor. How can a play not be hilarious when it incorporates ukeleles and a dancing hula doll with lighted breasts?!?!   Even better, you can laugh your way all the way to the bank since tickets for the Tuesday, June 16 performance are only $25! Catch it before it closes entirely on June 17.

-Deanna Duff