Titus Andronicus Jr.

Table 8 Productions at Sacred Fools
Reviewed by Vanessa Cate
Through June 18

RECOMMENDED

When Mr. Benjamin (Thomas Chrastka), a Dawson Middle School theater teacher is left by his wife, he decides to produce a version of Shakespeare’s bloodiest play with his students in the roles. Whittled down to an hour, the show is a non-stop laugh riot.

The novelty of young children acting out the most horrific acts imaginable doesn’t get old, and if that’s all this production amounted to, it would be enough. But creator and director Troy Heard has given us much more, and without giving too much away, I’ll tell you that he surprises us and imparts a real sense of tension and horror.

Not only is this is an outstanding show on its own, but it’s also a clever and successful version of Titus Andronicus that communicates with clarity and entertainment all of the Bard’s original themes. In addition to the gore and violence, the kids are adorable. Titus Andronicus Jr. is an exceptionally fun and hilarious bloodbath.

Sacred Fools, Second Stage, 6320 Santa Monica Blvd. Hollywood; https://www.hollywoodfringe.org/projects/3410?tab=details Running time: Approximately 1 hour with no intermission.