Happiest Man Alive

Reviewed by Julyza Commodore
Zombie Joe’s Underground Theatre
Thru March 4

 Jorge Lozano, portraying himself, is the “Happiest Man Alive” or perhaps that is what he is trying to convince himself. Or perhaps he is showing how happiness can be fleeting. Or perhaps even, he is showing his idea of what his own happiness looks like. Directed and produced by Zombie Joe with an original musical score by Kevin Van Cott, it turns out that this a rollercoaster of an event in the span of about 30 minutes.

There’s excitement, angst and quite possibly every emotion in between during this immersive event. Immediately, the audience is thrown into his frame of reference. Although we are quickly introduced, we don’t find out his name, but we do find out his deepest and darkest thoughts as he walks around and guides us while telling a story —not the story of a man who is exceedingly happy, nor is it a demure presentation. There is rock music, dancing, walking and tons of up-close interaction between actor and audience. It is not the show for you if you are not interested in participating. However, it is courageous, honest and entertaining and may even cause you to question what happiness is to you.

Zombie Joe’s Underground Theatre, 4850 Lankershilm Blvd, North Hollywood, CA 91601; Fri. & Sat., at 8 pm, 8:45 pm, 9:30 pm, and 10:15pm; thru March 4. Running time: 30 minutes. https://www.zombiejoes.com