Mindplay is housed at the Greenwich House Theater through April 20.
By Richard Bernard
When you knowingly enter a theater to see a show about mentalism, your senses are heightened with curious anticipation. What could happen? Could I be called onstage? Would I go? Could the spotlight be on me? The anticipation is palpable.
Immediately from the onset, Mindplay by Vinny DePonto delivers that excitement, that curiosity, that anticipation. Unfortunately, after about 15 to 20 minutes, the performance loses its mojo.
Vinny is very charismatic with an engaging stage presence, and I really wanted to love this production. Unfortunately, unless it has become more polished for a discerning NYC audience since I saw it early in previews, I cannot in good faith recommend it.
Mindplay is more of a one-man show than a mentalist one. You know those one-man shows where they reminisce about their lives and reflect on their childhoods? Well, this one does that too, but in a roundabout way, using the concept of a mind palace. The performer, Vinny, is too young for a complete retrospective; however, I see where he’s going with this. It’s an interesting concept and has potential; I just think it needs to be more fully developed. I think the basic structure is there, but the end result is not as compelling as it should be for New York City theater.
I noticed that half the audience was only partially engaged. Many times there was only a smattering of applause. The other half tried to be supportive as the “tricks” fell short. In fact, I found my mind wandering several times, and had to refocus.
Mindplay is similar to shows we have seen before, but with less flair, less comedy, and less mentalism. The “tricks” are decent, but nothing new or awe-inspiring. Plus, examples of mentalism are too few and far between, with too much narrative about the workings of the mind woven in between. Also, many reveals are too subtle. In this instance, subtlety does not garner much applause. This show may play better in other cities (it apparently had strong performances in both Los Angeles and in DC); however, in NYC, it probably won’t thrive without constantly engaging the viewer and thrilling the audience.
Find tickets and more information HERE.
TV and City 