Sandra de Helen’s Review of Blonde on a Bum Trip

Sandra de Helen of Shoutout’s review of Blonde on a Bum Trip: “Blonde on a Bum Trip by Mikki Gillette closes this weekend, so hurry to see it if you haven't already.

Gillette is a prolific playwright whose work (according to her website) "depicts the trans experience in all its juicy, dramatic richness." She herself is a trans woman; her plays have won awards, and are often featured at Fuse Theatre Ensemble. Fuse concentrates on plays by and about the LGBTQIA community, and its productions are for all. They have produced several of Gillette's plays. Rusty Tenant, founder of Fuse Theatre Ensemble, is enthusiastic about Blonde on a Bum Trip, writing about Blonde: "It is truly joyous. You will learn a bit about our collective history, art history, and yes, queer history."

Blonde on a Bum Trip tells the story of three trans women: Candy Darling, Holly Woodlawn, and Jackie Curtis as they make their way from Off-Off-Broadway to film stardom in Andy Warhol's films. Gillette did her research and brings the characters to life with witty, high-camp dialogue, and gradually more and more real dialogue as their lives take twists and turns.

Ruby Welch (she/they) is the standout among the three main characters. Her line delivery is always on point and always clear, regardless of the emotion she portrays. Heath Houghton Hyun (he/they) of the ensemble plays multiple characters, switching costumes, hairdos, and character swiftly and easily. Apparently there is nothing they can't do. Cosmo Reynolds (they/them) also plays several roles. Their Andy Warhol made the audience chuckle, their portrayal of a young woman was sweet and believable.

Rusty Tennant directs. He has assembled an excellent cast and crew. The set works as several locations; the costumes are abundant and sometimes stunningly gorgeous; lights and sound are just right. Tennant employs a neat trick during one point in the show when Candy Darling is visited by several characters. The actors have to scurry back and forth making quick changes, and Tennant allows the audience to have a view of backstage for the process. This allows the audience to stay engaged while Candy waits for each visitor.

There are only a few performances remaining. Go to FuseTheatreEnsemble.com for tickets, and remember tickets at Fuse are always G.A.F. (Give as you're Able, Friends)”