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The Christmas Present

Reviewed by Lovell Estell III

Theatre of NOTE

Through Dec. 24

RECOMMENDED:

For those seeking a departure from run-of-the-mill Christmas offerings, Guy Picot’s “dark British comedy about a hooker, a hotel room and some holiday magic,” should spice up the season. Divorced, miserable and desperately in need of companionship on Christmas Eve, Colin (Troy Blendell) hires the beautiful Salome (Alejandra Bursik-Cervantes) to entertain him in his hotel room. After she bounces in ready to please, and after the requisite pleasantries, she disappears into the bathroom, presumably to prepare for the evening. A second knock on the door, however, brings the real Salome (Mandi Moss), into the mix, whose cantankerous disposition and sharp tongue are in stark contrast to her counterpart.

It isn’t long before we realize that the first Salome is a fantasy figure, who brings out the tenderer, more human side in Colin, while the “real” Salome is, by turns, friend, foe, lover, and therapist.  Playing off this contrast, Picot’s tale offers up some hearty laughter, a few moments of dread, and a sort of Scrooge-like redemption.

Picot also does a fine job of directing, drawing sharp performances from his cast, particularly Blendell, who mesmerizes with his credibility.

Theatre of NOTE, 1957 Cahuenga Blvd., Hlywd.; Tues.-Wed., 8 p.m.; through Dec. 24. https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/920345.